Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars Recipe

Warm cinnamon spice, creamy frosting, and a basically fuss-free process—Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are the dream dessert for cozy gatherings and spontaneous celebrations alike. These bars deliver irresistibly tender pumpkin cake layered with luscious cream cheese frosting, all in a generously sized sheet pan that’s just begging to be shared. From their bold pumpkin flavor to their soft crumb and playful fall garnishes, these treats are always the star of the sweets table. If you’re craving autumn comfort or need a crowd-pleaser that disappears in minutes, Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are sure to win over everyone with just one bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars is a fantastic mix of everyday pantry staples and a few key players that make these bars stand out. Each one adds its own special touch—whether it’s lending that signature golden hue, extra moistness, or the just-right level of spice for the perfect fall treat.

• Pumpkin Puree: Libby’s pumpkin puree (or your favorite brand) is the heart of this recipe, giving the bars their vibrant color and unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the bars and keeps the crumb tender but sturdy enough to pick up easily.
• White Sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the earthiness of the pumpkin and spices.
• Butter (softened): Ensures a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while also helping the bars rise and brown beautifully.
• Large Eggs: Bind all the ingredients together and add moisture, helping achieve that lovely, cakey texture.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: These two work together to gently lift the batter, making the bars airy without getting crumbly.
• Ground Cinnamon & Pumpkin Pie Spice: The warm spice duo is essential for that classic pumpkin bar aroma and flavor.
• Salt: Just a little to sharpen flavors and balance out the sweet and spice.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: This superfine sugar is the secret to smooth, cloudlike cream cheese frosting.
• Cream Cheese (softened): Makes the frosting ultra-creamy and irresistibly tangy.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the frosting’s flavor.
• Fall Colored Sprinkles & Mini Pumpkin Candies: Decorate your bars for a seasonal, festive touch that’s especially fun for kids and party tables.
• Sprinkles of Cinnamon: A final dusting of cinnamon makes the dessert look gorgeous and enhances its cozy appeal.

How to Make Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s perfectly hot once your batter is ready. While the oven warms, line a 12″x17″ half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper for effortless removal later. For a taller, fluffier bar, you can also use a 10″x15″ jelly roll pan. Don’t forget to spray the sides with cooking spray for total nonstick insurance—nobody wants to waste those delicious edges!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl (or your stand mixer if you want to give your arms a break), blend the softened butter with the white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for dreamy bars—creaming well ensures a soft, melt-in-your-mouth crumb. Add each egg one at a time, mixing thoroughly so everything is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and baking powder. Sifting not only gets rid of any lumps but also helps these ingredients distribute more evenly into your wet mixture, making sure every bite of the Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars has that perfect balance of spice and fluffiness.

Step 4: Mix and Add Pumpkin

Slowly mix your dry ingredients into the creamed butter, sugar, and egg mixture. Once the batter starts coming together, blend in the star ingredient—the pumpkin puree. The batter should look creamy, smooth, and slightly thick. Take a moment to savor the amazing aroma of warm spices and pumpkin!

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Pour the batter onto your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it out evenly, all the way into the corners. Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll notice the bars puffing up gently and the kitchen filling with that cozy pumpkin spice scent. Let them cool completely in the pan before frosting so your topping doesn’t melt away.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars cool, combine the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract in a clean mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture is incredibly smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed. Gently add the confectioners’ sugar a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the frosting is too thick, stir in a tablespoon of milk at a time until you hit the perfect spreadable consistency. If it gets too soft, just add more confectioners’ sugar until it firms up again.

Step 7: Frost, Decorate, and Serve

Once the Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars are fully cooled, generously spread all that luscious cream cheese frosting right to the edges. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a handful of fall-colored sprinkles, and nestle in a few mini pumpkin candies for a festive finish. Cut into squares or rectangles before serving—get creative with the size to feed a crowd or to nibble with an afternoon coffee!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars

Garnishes

You can take these bars over the top with a few thoughtful flourishes. A dusting of cinnamon looks beautiful against the creamy frosting and intensifies the autumn aroma. Fall-themed sprinkles and mini pumpkin candies add an adorable, whimsical touch—perfect for a holiday table or classroom treat. If you want extra flair, a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of pepitas creates a grown-up finish!

Side Dishes

Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars shine alongside a mug of hot cider, fragrant chai, or classic coffee. Their lightly sweet, spiced flavor contrasts beautifully with tart apple slices, spiced nuts, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a party, set out a platter of fresh fruits or salty pretzels for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert buffet.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bars into mini squares and arranging them on a tiered dessert stand for a festive party centerpiece. For grab-and-go events, portion and wrap each bar in parchment and colorful twine. If you’re feeling fancy, pipe little frosting pumpkins, leaves, or swirls on each square for bakery-worthy Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars that look almost too good to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars keep their soft texture and rich flavor for several days. Simply transfer the bars to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting helps lock in moisture and freshness, ensuring every bite remains luscious for up to 5 or 6 days.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Arrange frosted and cut bars in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight when you need a quick treat.

Reheating

While you don’t usually need to reheat Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars, you can bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you like your bars slightly warm, heat individual pieces in the microwave for just a few seconds. They’ll taste bakery-fresh and the frosting will become silky as ever.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works well, just make sure it’s thick—not watery—and similar in consistency to Libby’s. Strain extra liquid if needed for best results in Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

No worries—just use extra cinnamon, plus a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if you have them. The flavor will be nearly identical and still delicious in your Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars.

Can the frosting be made ahead of time?

Yes! Make the cream cheese frosting up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Allow it to soften before spreading so it goes on smoothly.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

For neat slices, chill the frosted bars briefly in the fridge to firm up the frosting. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for perfect Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars every time.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Check them at the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, but not wet. The bars will also be golden and lightly pulled away from the pan edges.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about sharing a big batch of Sheet Pan Libby’s Pumpkin Bars—warm spices, creamy frosting, and that unbeatable pumpkin flavor. Give these a try, and you’ll see just how easy it is to treat your favorite people to a little slice of autumn happiness!

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