Autumn is here, and with it comes the delightful aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through our kitchens. I recently found myself craving something that perfectly marries the essence of my favorite seasonal drink with the warmth of homemade comfort. Enter Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars—these soft, thick, and rich dessert bars are a heavenly mix of spiced pumpkin and espresso that will transport you straight to a cozy café. Not only are they surprisingly easy to prepare in just one saucepan, but they also make for a crowd-pleasing snack at gatherings or a warm afternoon comfort. Want to make them gluten-free? I’ve got you covered! Are you ready to indulge in these irresistible treats? Why Are Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars So Special? Irresistible Flavor: The enchanting combination of spiced pumpkin and espresso in these Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars creates a cozy, autumnal delight that you won’t want to miss! Effortless Preparation: With just one saucepan needed, these bars save you time and hassle, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. Versatile Variations: Want to customize? Consider adding walnuts for a nutty crunch or even try substituting applesauce for a fruity twist. Healthy Options: Using gluten-free flour means everyone can enjoy this irresistible treat without worry. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve these bars warm, perhaps with a cup of coffee or tea, for a comforting experience that friends and family will rave about! For more cozy recipes featuring pumpkin, don’t miss out on my Pumpkin Spice Smoothie or Spiced Pumpkin Pancakes! Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Ingredients For the Batter Pumpkin Purée – Provides moisture and natural sweetness; use fresh or canned purée for convenience. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bars with a dessert-like taste; alternatives may impact texture. Butter – Adds a rich flavor; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free version. Canola Oil – Ensures a moist texture; substitute with melted coconut oil for a subtle flavor change. Pumpkin Pie Spice – This aromatic blend amplifies the pumpkin flavor; you can substitute with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice if necessary. Salt – Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing all the flavors. Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds structure; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; replace with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour to make it gluten-free. Baking Powder – Aids in rising slightly, creating that soft, cake-like texture. For the Espresso Glaze Milk – Acts as a base for the glaze; choose your preference, dairy or non-dairy. Espresso Powder – Adds that unmistakable coffee kick, infusing the glaze with flavor. Salt – A touch to balance the sweetness of the glaze. Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze to a perfect consistency; mix until smooth for best results. Dive into creating these delightful Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars, and bring the warmth of autumn right to your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease an 8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This initial preparation sets the stage for your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars, ensuring they bake evenly and develop that delicious golden top. Step 2: Combine Ingredients on the Stove In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, pumpkin purée, canola oil, butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is well blended and the mixture starts to bubble slightly. Step 3: Cool the Mixture Once melted and combined, remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent a crust from forming on top. This cooling step is vital; it ensures the egg you’ll add next doesn’t scramble when mixed in, allowing your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars to maintain a soft texture. Step 4: Add the Egg After the mixture has cooled, whisk in the egg until fully incorporated. This will help bind your batter together. Next, gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and baking powder until no streaks of flour remain, creating a smooth and thick batter. This combination is key to achieving the perfect consistency for your bars. Step 5: Pour into the Pan Transfer the batter to the prepared 8-inch square pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into all corners. Make sure to smooth the top for a neat appearance. This step ensures that your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars bake uniformly, resulting in that delightful texture everyone loves. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 32-36 minutes. Keep an eye on your bars—once they appear set on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, they’re done! This is the moment to showcase your baking skills, ensuring a deliciously soft interior while avoiding overbaking. Step 7: Cool and Transfer Once baked, allow the Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After this brief cooling period, transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely. This extra step helps maintain their moist texture, making them even more enjoyable as a delightful autumn treat. Step 8: Prepare the Espresso Glaze While the bars are cooling, prepare the espresso glaze by combining milk, espresso powder, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture until it’s just warm enough to dissolve the espresso, about 30-45 seconds in the microwave. Stir gently to blend the ingredients smoothly without any lumps. Step 9: Glaze the Bars After your bars have cooled completely, whisk in confectioners’ sugar with the espresso mixture until you achieve a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze generously over the top of the cooled Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This finishing touch will not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful shine to your bars. Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Variations Feel free to get creative with these Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars and tailor them to your taste! Gluten-Free: Use King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The bars will still be delightfully moist and tasty! Nutty Delight: Add walnuts or pecans for a crunch! Chopped nuts elevate the texture, making each bite even more satisfying. Fruity Twist: Substitute half the pumpkin purée with applesauce to introduce a sweet and tangy element. This offers a delightful surprise amid the warm spices. Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with vegan butter and use non-dairy milk in the glaze for a completely dairy-free version. The final product will remain rich and delicious! Extra Spice: Stir in a bit of ginger or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. This warms up the flavor profile, giving the bars a more complex taste. Cream Cheese Frosting: Top with a swirl of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat that combines sweetness with slight tartness. This’ll take your bars to a whole new level! Espresso-Heavy Glaze: Increase the espresso powder in the glaze for an intensified coffee flavor. This will beautifully complement the pumpkin spice and make each bite a treat. Chocolate Drizzle: Add a chocolate drizzle atop the glaze, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with pumpkin spice for a decadent touch. You won’t be able to resist! For more delightful seasonal recipes, don’t forget to check out my Spiced Pumpkin Pancakes and Peach Crumble Bars. Happy baking! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Room Temperature: Store the Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh. Fridge: For longer storage, place the bars in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to a week. Freezer: If you want to enjoy these bars later, freeze unglazed Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that cozy freshness! What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Cozy up with the heartwarming flavors of autumn, and elevate your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars experience with delightful pairings that resonate with warmth and comfort. Fresh Brewed Coffee: The rich, warm flavors of coffee enhance the espresso notes in the bars, creating a perfect pairing for an afternoon treat. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the spiced bars, making each bite feel indulgent and satisfying. Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai beautifully harmonize with the pumpkin spice, providing an aromatic, soothing beverage to enjoy alongside your bars. Whipped Cream: A generous dollop transforms these bars into dessert perfection, adding a light and airy finish to the sweet, dense texture beneath. Maple Glazed Pecans: Crunchy, sweet nuts amplify the autumnal flavors and add a delightful texture that complements the soft bars beautifully. Cinnamon Infused Milk: A warm glass of cinnamon milk mirrors the spices in the bars, offering a comforting drink reminiscent of cozy holiday evenings. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel over your bars for an extra sweet touch; it creates a rich contrast that enhances their already delightful flavors. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit medley of apples and pears adds a crisp, refreshing element to balance the rich, warm flavors of your indulgent snack. Hot Apple Cider: The sweet and spicy notes of hot apple cider create a wonderful autumn ambiance, making it an ideal drink to enjoy with your dessert. Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Embrace the season fully by serving these bars with a cup of pumpkin spice coffee; it’s a festive way to celebrate flavors in harmony! Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator. To do this, simply combine your sugar, pumpkin purée, oil, butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, then let cool before adding the egg. This will help maintain the bars’ flavor and texture. You can also bake the bars up to 3 days in advance; just ensure they’re fully cooled before placing them in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness. When ready to glaze, whip up your espresso glaze and pour it over the bars just before serving to keep everything deliciously vibrant! Enjoy your time-saving creation! Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Cool the Mixture: Allow your butter and sugar mixture to cool for 10-15 minutes before adding the egg to prevent scrambling and ensure a smooth batter. Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on the oven, particularly when using gluten-free flour. It may require a few extra minutes to set thoroughly. Test with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; it should come out clean. Avoid over-baking to keep your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars delightfully moist. Mix Until Smooth: Stir flour and baking powder gently until just combined, avoiding over-mixing to maintain the soft, dense texture. Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding walnuts or using applesauce instead of part of the pumpkin purée for added depth in your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars. Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin purée should I use? Absolutely! You can use either fresh pumpkin purée or canned purée for these bars. For convenience, I often reach for canned purée during the busy fall season—just ensure it’s 100% pumpkin and not the pumpkin pie filling! How should I store Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars? To keep your bars fresh, store them covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to a week. Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars? Yes, you can freeze unglazed Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars for up to 2 months! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them slightly in the microwave for the best texture. What if my bars are too dry? If your bars turn out too dry, this could be due to over-baking. Make sure the toothpick test is your friend! When a toothpick comes out clean but not overly dry, they’re perfect. You can also add a dash more of pumpkin purée next time for added moisture—remember, the more pumpkin, the merrier! Are there any dietary considerations for these bars? Absolutely! You can easily make these Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars gluten-free by substituting regular flour with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour. Additionally, to make them dairy-free, use vegan butter and a non-dairy milk for the glaze. Just be sure to double-check for any nut allergies if you’re adding walnuts or pecans. Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars: Your New Favorite Fall Dessert Enjoy these delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars, a perfect dessert that combines the essence of pumpkin spice with espresso. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 36 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 6 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Batter Ingredients1 cup Pumpkin Purée Use fresh or canned purée.1 cup Granulated Sugar Alternatives may impact texture.1/2 cup Butter Vegan butter can be used.1/4 cup Canola Oil Substitute with melted coconut oil if desired.2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice Can substitute with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.1/2 teaspoon Salt Essential for balancing sweetness.1 large Egg Use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.1 cup All-Purpose Flour Replace with gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Aids in rising.Espresso Glaze Ingredients1 tablespoon Milk Dairy or non-dairy as preferred.1 tablespoon Espresso Powder Adds coffee flavor.1/4 teaspoon Salt Balances the glaze sweetness.1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar Mix until smooth. Equipment Medium saucepan8-inch square baking panWhiskSpatulawire rackMicrowave-safe bowl Method Preparation InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square pan or line it with parchment paper.In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, pumpkin purée, canola oil, butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir continuously over medium heat until melted and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.Whisk in the egg once the mixture has cooled. Gradually stir in the flour and baking powder until smooth.Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread it evenly.Bake for 32-36 minutes until set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.Let the bars cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.Prepare the espresso glaze by combining milk, espresso powder, and salt in a bowl. Heat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds to dissolve the espresso.Whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 380IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesStore bars covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze unglazed bars for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
