Pumpkin Spice Bars with Cranberries & Glaze

These pumpkin spice bars are a delightful autumn-inspired treat, perfectly balanced with warm spices, tangy dried cranberries, and a sweet glaze drizzled on top. Soft, moist, and flavorful, they make a wonderful dessert for gatherings, holidays, or as a cozy snack with coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars bring together the best flavors of the season. The pumpkin purée keeps them moist and tender, while the spices add warmth and depth. The dried cranberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness, and the glaze ties everything together with a light finishing touch. They are simple to prepare, travel well, and are sure to impress family and friends.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pumpkin purée

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground nutmeg

• Ground cloves

• Ground ginger

• Salt

• Brown sugar

• Granulated sugar

• Unsalted butter (melted) or vegetable oil

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• Dried cranberries

• Powdered sugar (for glaze)

• Milk (for glaze)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.

3. In another bowl, beat the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter (or oil), eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until combined.

5. Fold in the dried cranberries.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the bars to cool completely before glazing.

9. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars, then slice and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Baking time: 25–30 minutes

• Cooling and glazing time: 30 minutes

• Total time: about 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

• Use dried cherries instead of cranberries for a slightly sweeter taste.

• Replace the glaze with cream cheese frosting for a richer finish.

• Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds before baking for added texture.

• Incorporate chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.

storage/reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the bars without glaze for up to 2 months, then thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?

Yes, fresh pumpkin purée can be used, but make sure it is well-drained and smooth before adding to the batter.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I skip the cranberries?

Certainly. You may omit them or replace them with raisins, chopped dates, or chocolate chips.

What can I use instead of milk for the glaze?

You can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or a non-dairy alternative such as almond or oat milk.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the bars a day in advance. Just glaze them before serving for the freshest look and taste.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan or two 9×13 pans. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Why are my bars too dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bars. Mix only until combined for the best texture.

How do I keep the bars from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind it may affect sweetness and texture.

Are these bars suitable for freezing after glazing?

It is best to freeze them without the glaze. Add the glaze after thawing for best results.

Conclusion

Pumpkin spice bars with cranberries and glaze are a delightful dessert that captures the warmth and coziness of the season. With their soft texture, spiced flavor, and sweet finish, they are perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying with a warm drink. Easy to prepare and versatile, they will quickly become a favorite treat in your recipe collection.

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