Name: Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (297g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (114g) pumpkin purée; 1/4 cup (50g) vegetable oil; 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter; 2 1/4 teaspoons King Arthur Pumpkin Pie Spice; 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon table salt, divided; 1 large egg; 1 1/2 cups (180g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 4 teaspoons milk; 3/4 teaspoon espresso powder; Pinch of table salt; 3/4 cup (86g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted if lumpy

Jump to Recipe

There is something truly magical about Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars that captures the essence of autumn in each bite. This delightfully moist and spiced treat mixes the creamy warmth of pumpkin, aromatic spices, and a whisper of espresso glaze, making it a standout favorite during cozy seasons. Whether you crave a comforting snack or a festive dessert, these bars bring the beloved taste of a pumpkin spice latte into a convenient, sliceable form that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars are straightforward yet crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays its role: from the smooth pumpkin purée lending moisture and richness, to the pumpkin pie spice infusing that signature cozy warmth, and a touch of espresso powder adding just the right hint of coffee goodness.

Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the bars and helps create a tender crumb.
Pumpkin purée (1/2 cup): Adds moisture, color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
Vegetable oil (1/4 cup): Keeps the bars moist without adding extra heaviness.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Contributes richness and depth to the flavor.
King Arthur Pumpkin Pie Spice (2 1/4 teaspoons): The perfect spice blend for autumn-inspired warmth.
Table salt (1/2 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and helps structure the bars.
King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides the base and body of the bars.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a gentle lift to create a tender texture.
Milk (4 teaspoons): Used in the espresso glaze to achieve smooth consistency.
Espresso powder (3/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle coffee kick, highlighting the latte inspiration.
Confectioners’ sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens and thickens the espresso glaze.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8-inch square pan. You can also line it with parchment or a silicone liner for easier removal. This simple prep ensures your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly shaped, ready to be gloriously glazed later.

Step 2: Cook the Pumpkin Mixture

Combine the sugar, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, butter, pumpkin pie spice, and half a teaspoon of salt in a medium saucepan. Gently cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. This step melds all those cozy autumn flavors beautifully and creates a smooth, luscious base for your bars.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture and Add the Egg

Once your pumpkin mixture is silky and combined, remove it from heat and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This cooling is essential to avoid scrambling the egg in the next step. Then, stir in the large egg until fully incorporated, which brings body and structure to the batter.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Now, add the flour, baking powder, and the remaining salt to the cooled wet mixture. Stir just until the batter is smooth and free of flour streaks. Overmixing here isn’t your friend—it can toughen your bars, so keep it gentle for that tender crumb everyone will adore.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your batter to the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly. Bake for 32 to 36 minutes until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the inviting scent of pumpkin spices, a promise of the deliciousness to come.

Step 6: Cool the Bars Completely

After baking, let the bars cool for about 15 minutes before loosening the edges and removing them from the pan. Placing them on a wire rack allows for thorough cooling, which is crucial before adding the glaze to avoid melting.

Step 7: Prepare and Apply the Espresso Glaze

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the milk, espresso powder, and a pinch of salt. Warm gently, stirring in intervals, until the espresso dissolves. Add the sifted confectioners’ sugar and stir until smooth. Pour this glossy glaze over the cooled bars, spreading it to the edges for a beautiful finish. Let it set, giving the bars their final, irresistible touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars

Garnishes

These bars are charming on their own, but adding a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice or a few mini chocolate chips can take them over the top. A dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of white chocolate is another fun way to let your personality shine through.

Side Dishes

Perfect with a hot cup of coffee or classic pumpkin spice latte, the bars also pair beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These simple extras create a cozy, inviting experience that complements the pumpkin and spice flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bars on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves and cinnamon sticks for a festive look. Alternatively, wrap individual bars in parchment tied with twine to make charming gifts or party favors. The inviting glaze and warm spices make presentation a delightful part of the experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and glazed, store your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars covered at room temperature for several days. This keeps them moist and tender, perfect for enjoying throughout the week without any loss in flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the unglazed bars in an airtight container for up to two months. It’s best to freeze before glazing because the glaze doesn’t freeze well and may lose its lovely texture.

Reheating

If you like your bars a little warm, reheat them gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid heating the glaze directly to keep its texture intact. A warmed bar brings out the comforting flavors and softens the texture beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for the purée?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly and is a convenient, consistent choice for this recipe. Just be sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Is the espresso flavor very strong?

The espresso powder adds just a subtle, complementary coffee note—it doesn’t overpower the pumpkin spice, but rather enhances the latte flavor profile you expect from Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another fat?

You can use melted coconut oil or a neutral oil of your choice. Just keep in mind that different oils may slightly affect the texture and flavor, though the bars will still turn out delicious.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not as written—this recipe uses all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, try substituting a gluten-free baking blend, but results can vary, so some experimentation might be needed.

Can I make these bars vegan?

With some tweaks, yes! Replace the butter with a vegan alternative, use a flax or chia egg instead of a chicken egg, and swap the milk for a plant-based variety. The flavor will still be wonderful with those adjustments.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like cozying up with a slice of Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars when the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall. These bars capture all the warmth and joy of your favorite latte in a form that’s perfect for sharing or indulging on your own. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new fall go-to treat!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 11 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 16 bars (cut 4×4) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in the cozy flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars, featuring a moist pumpkin-spiced base and a luscious espresso glaze that perfectly captures the essence of your favorite autumn latte in an easy-to-bake bar form.

Instructions

Prepare the baking pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper or a silicone liner, then grease the liner to prevent sticking.
Make the pumpkin spice batter: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, unsalted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a spatula, until the butter is melted, sugar is dissolved, and the mixture is smooth, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Cool the mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent skin from forming.
Add egg and dry ingredients: Stir in the large egg until combined. Add the all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing until the batter is smooth with no visible flour streaks. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake the bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 32 to 36 minutes, until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then loosen edges and transfer the bars to a rack to cool completely.
Prepare espresso glaze: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk, espresso powder, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt. Heat in 10-second increments, stirring after each, until espresso powder dissolves. Stir in confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy.
Glaze the bars: Pour the espresso glaze evenly over the cooled bars, spreading it to the edges. Allow the glaze to set completely before slicing.
Storage: Store leftover bars covered at room temperature for several days. Freeze unglazed bars for up to 2 months; glazed bars are best enjoyed fresh and not recommended for freezing.

Notes

Use fresh pumpkin purée for the best texture and flavor, not pumpkin pie filling which is sweetened and spiced.
King Arthur Pumpkin Pie Spice is a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves; you can substitute an equal amount of your favorite pumpkin pie spice blend.
The espresso powder enhances the coffee flavor but can be omitted if desired for a milder flavor.
Make sure to sift the confectioners’ sugar if lumpy to ensure a smooth glaze.
Use fresh eggs for safety and best texture.
For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with your preferred plant-based milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American