Healthy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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 These healthy pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting have quickly become my go-to, especially during my favorite time of the year: fall. The creamy cream cheese frosting paired with these pumpkin pie bars? It’s a match made in heaven.

It’s the perfect fall dessert without all that unnecessary sugar. If you’ve been searching for that standout pumpkin treat that won’t just be a hit with you, but with the whole family, you’ve found it. Trust me, once you try these, they might just become your new favorite recipe.

These healthy pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are the epitome of fall comfort. As the leaves start to turn, many of us start craving those familiar fall flavors. But imagine enjoying those nostalgic tastes without the aftermath of a sugar crash?

Similar to these pumpkin protein bars, these bars are just that—a healthier take on a cherished fall treat, blending reduced sugar, whole ingredients, and the unmistakable charm of pumpkin pie spice.

By incorporating a few clever ingredient tweaks, we’ve whipped up a dessert that not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also feels good in the belly. When those Fall cravings hit, and you’re in the mood for a piece of the season, this pumpkin bar recipe is your ticket.

Loving making your own healthy dessert bars? Try this Healthy Millionaire Shortbread or these Cranberry Bliss Bars next.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Rachel’s Nutrition Tip: These pumpkin bars are a macro win! With fiber-rich pumpkin and whole grains, they’re a smarter carb choice. Swapping out oils for apple sauce and using Swerve cuts back on fats and sugars, while the yogurt-boosted cream cheese frosting adds a protein touch

What Makes These Pumpkin Bars Healthy?

First off, instead of going the usual route with refined all-purpose flour, we’re using a blend of whole wheat flour and almond flour. This mix not only lends a richer texture but also a bonus of nutrients not found in regular flour.

Sugar? We’ve sidestepped the refined stuff. These easy pumpkin bars and their luscious cream cheese frosting are 100% refined sugar-free. We’ve harnessed the natural sweetness of maple syrup and paired it with the zero-calorie sweetener, Swerve. This combo sweetens our bars perfectly, all while keeping the carb count in check.

And here’s the real game-changer: no oils. Yep, these are completely oil-free pumpkin bars. The magic? Apple sauce. It steps in, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness, without the need for any oils.

Now, let’s chat about that creamy topping. Our sugar free cream cheese frosting recipe has a secret ally: vanilla Greek yogurt. It not only infuses the frosting with a hint of vanilla but also amps up the protein content. So, while you’re enjoying these delicious pumpkin bars, you can take comfort in knowing the fats and carbs are dialed down.

The bars themself are not super sweet so you can add more of the Swerve sweetener – however – the frosting adds a lot of the sweetness to the bars. Plus, the combination of cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and nutmeg make up for lack of sweetness.

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make these Healthy Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting:

Ingredient Notes

Greek Yogurt: You can use any brand of vanilla Greek Yogurt – however I prefer Siggi’s because it is high in protein and low in sugar. If you have an Aldi’s near you….the Skyr brand is basically their version of Siggi’s and a great option as well.

Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

Pumpkin Spice: You can use pumpkin spice or pumpkin pie spice as they can be used interchangeably.

Related: Pumpkin Spice vs. Pumpkin Pie Spice

How to make Healthy Pumpkin Bars: Step by Step

Step 1: In a large bowl mix together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, sweeteners, apple sauce, spices, eggs, almond milk, canned pumpkin, baking soda and powder with an electric hand mixer on medium speed.

Step 2:  Spread the mixture into a 9×13″ baking pan and bake the bars in the oven at 350 degrees for about 35-40 minutes.

Step 3: In a medium sized bowl mix together the whipped cream cheese, vanilla extract, sweetener, and vanilla Greek yogurt.

Step 4: Spread the frosting on your pumpkin bars after they have cooled down completely.

Storage Tips

Storage: Once your pumpkin bars have fully cooled, transfer them into an airtight container. To prevent any sticky frosting situations, layer parchment paper between the bars. Because of the cream cheese topping, it’s best to keep them in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 5 days

To Freeze: Set the bars on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, letting them freeze until solid. Then, transition them into a freezer bag, keeping that parchment paper between layers to ensure they don’t stick together. They’ll be good to go for up to 3 months. When that pumpkin bar craving strikes, just let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

How To Serve

• Classic Pumpkin Squares: Simply cut them into uniform squares or rectangles. This is the traditional way, and it lets the creamy frosting shine.
• With a Dollop: Before serving, add an extra dollop of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream on top for an added touch of creaminess.
• Dusted: A light dusting of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder over the top can elevate the presentation and give an extra hint of flavor.
• With Sides: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for those wanting an extra treat.
• With a Warm Beverage: Offer a cup of spiced apple cider, hot cocoa, or a pumpkin spice latte on the side. Yum!
• Festive Toppers: Depending on the occasion, you can use festive sprinkles, edible glitter, or themed cake toppers.

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