Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like that first sip of a Pumpkin Spice Latte to signal the arrival of fall. But what if you could capture all those cozy flavors in a dessert? These Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars do just that, transforming your favorite seasonal coffee into a mouthwatering treat. Not only are they a joy to whip up, but they also strike the perfect balance between satisfying your sweet tooth and delivering that comforting autumn warmth. Plus, they’re gluten-free friendly—so everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert! Ready to indulge in a treat that channels the essence of fall? Let’s dive into the magic of these bars! Why are Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars a must-try? Cozy Flavor Explosion: These bars are packed with the aromatic spices of autumn, delivering a comforting taste that warms your soul. Quick to Make: Minimal prep time means you can whip up this delightful dessert in just under an hour, leaving you more time to enjoy the season. Gluten-Free Option Available: With a simple swap, these bars become gluten-free, making them accessible for everyone at your gatherings. Perfect Pairing: They pair beautifully with your favorite hot beverage, such as a homemade Brown Sugar Latte or a comforting Strawberry Matcha Latte, enhancing your coffee experience. Crowd-Pleaser: A sure-fire hit at any autumn gathering, these bars will impress family and friends alike with their sweet, spiced goodness! Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Ingredients For the Batter Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture to the bars; substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor. Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and the signature pumpkin flavor; canned pumpkin works well. Cooking Oil – Helps achieve the perfect texture, keeping the bars moist; can substitute with melted coconut oil or melted butter for added flavor. Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor and adds richness; use melted for a smoother batter. Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of spices that gives the bars their autumn flavor; substitute with 1 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ginger, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. Egg – Provides structure and binds the bars; ensure it’s at room temperature for best results. All-Purpose Flour – Main structure-building ingredient; for a gluten-free option, substitute with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour. Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps bars rise; ensure it’s fresh for effective results. For the Espresso Glaze Milk – Creates a creamy base for your glaze; any type works, but whole milk adds richness. Espresso Powder – Infuses the glaze with a deep coffee flavor that enhances the bars; instant coffee can be used in a pinch. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; sifted for a smoother consistency. These Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars are not just a treat, they’re an experience wrapped in the warm, aromatic embrace of fall! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take an 8″ square pan and grease it generously, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step ensures that your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. Step 2: Combine and Heat In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, cooking oil, unsalted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. The warmth of these ingredients will create an aromatic base for your delicious bars. Step 3: Cool the Mixture Once your mixture has melted together beautifully, remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally as it cools to help lower the temperature evenly. This step is crucial to prevent cooking the egg in the next stage, ensuring your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars have the perfect texture. Step 4: Incorporate the Egg After the mixture has cooled slightly, add the room-temperature egg to the bowl. Mix well until everything is fully combined and you have a rich batter. The egg serves as the binding agent, making your bars soft and chewy while adding a comforting richness to every bite. Step 5: Mix in the Dry Ingredients Next, carefully sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Stir until just combined, ensuring there are no lumps. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher bars. The goal is a smooth batter, ready to transform into your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars. Step 6: Pour and Smooth Pour the batter into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into all corners. This ensures that your bars bake uniformly. The batter should be thick and should level nicely as you smooth it out, making way for that deliciously soft texture. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 32 to 36 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars; they are done when the edges pull away slightly from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon fill with mouthwatering autumn aromas! Step 8: Cool and Transfer After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling period ensures they set properly. Once slightly cooled, carefully transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing. Step 9: Prepare the Espresso Glaze While the bars cool, make the espresso glaze. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat milk and espresso powder for about 30 seconds until warm. Stir in the powdered sugar gradually until smooth, resulting in a silky glaze that will beautifully drizzle over your cooled Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars. Step 10: Glaze and Serve Once your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars have completely cooled, drizzle the prepared espresso glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before cutting the bars into squares. Your delightful autumn treat is now ready to be enjoyed with a cozy beverage! What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Indulge in the warm embrace of autumn with delicious pairings that enhance the cozy flavors of this enchanting dessert. Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop adds a luscious texture and balances the spices, making each bite feel like a warm hug. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Just a sprinkle on top elevates the taste profile and offers a delightful crunch, bringing a touch of sweetness. Fresh Apple Slices: Their crispness complements the soft bars, and the fruity tartness cuts through the rich flavors perfectly. Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of your favorite brew enhances the coffee notes in the bars, creating a harmonious pairing you’ll savor. Chai Tea: The spiced warmth of chai offers a delightful contrast, making for an inviting experience with every sip and bite. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of caramel on top introduces a sweet, buttery layer, adding depth to every mouthful of the Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of cold ice cream melting atop the warm bars creates a mouthwatering contrast that’s simply irresistible. Toasty Pecans: Adding these crispy bits encourages a delightful crunch, combining the nutty flavor with the sweet spices of autumn. Mulled Wine: The warm, aromatic drink enriches the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect adult companion to your dessert. Dark Chocolate Chunks: Fold these into the batter or serve on the side for a decadent treat; their richness plays beautifully against the spiced sweetness. Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to promote smooth incorporation and an even batter for your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined after adding flour. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bars, so keep it light and fluffy! Fresh Baking Powder: Always check that your baking powder is fresh to guarantee the bars rise properly. Old baking powder can lead to flat bars that miss out on that delightful texture. Cool Before Glazing: Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the espresso glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and helps it set beautifully on top. Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for several days, or freeze unglazed bars for up to 2 months for a quick treat later! Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars are perfect for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a delightful dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, bake the bars ahead of time and store them, unglazed, in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To maintain their delicious quality, ensure they cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, prepare the espresso glaze and drizzle it over the bars just before serving for that fresh, sweet finish that makes these Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars so irresistible! Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Feel free to bring your personal touch to these delightful bars, enhancing their flavor and texture to suit your taste! Lighter Option: Substitute half the pumpkin puree with applesauce for a lighter, fruitier twist that maintains moisture. Choco-Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts to the batter for an indulgent texture. The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with the spices. Sugar Swap: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a unique flavor that brings an earthiness to these bars. Your kitchen will smell heavenly! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected heat that balances well with the sweetness of pumpkin. Just a hint is enough to surprise your taste buds. Nut Butter Infusion: Swirl in 1/4 cup almond or peanut butter into the batter before baking for a creamy added layer of flavor. This twist creates a delightful nutty aroma! Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar on top of the batter for a caramelized, crunchy finish. You’ll love the crispy texture it adds! Fruity Accents: Toss in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins to the batter for a touch of sweetness and chewiness that complements the spices beautifully. These variations will not only customize your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars to your liking but also keep the essence of fall close at heart. If you’re looking for more cozy drinks, consider making a homemade Brown Sugar Latte or enjoy your bars alongside a warm cup of Strawberry Matcha Latte. Enjoy your cozy baking! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moist and flavorful texture. Fridge: If you prefer, these bars can be refrigerated for up to a week; just ensure they are in a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before glazing. Reheating: To enjoy the bars warm, simply microwave for a 10-15 seconds before serving; this enhances the pumpkin and spice flavors beautifully. Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pumpkin puree for my bars? Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for pure pumpkin puree, which is thicker and richer than pumpkin pie filling that contains added sugars and spices. Canned pumpkin works well, but if you’re up for it, homemade puree made from roasted pumpkin is divine! Make sure it’s smooth and free of large chunks for the ideal texture in your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars. What is the best way to store leftover bars? Very good question! Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you wish to extend their shelf life, refrigeration is a great option, allowing you to enjoy them for up to a week. Just remember to seal them tightly to keep them from drying out! Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars? Yes, indeed! Freeze your unglazed Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, feel free to glaze them fresh before serving. What if my bars turn out too dense or tough? Don’t worry! If your bars are dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Mix until just combined for a light texture. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, and check that your baking powder is fresh; old baking powder can lead to less-than-ideal rise. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! If you’re serving your Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars to guests, make sure to inform them about allergenic ingredients like eggs and gluten in the flour. To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour. Always check labels if you’re unsure about specific dietary needs. Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars for Cozy Fall Indulgence No ratings yet Delight in these Pumpkin Spice Latte Bars, a perfect dessert capturing the essence of fall. 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: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter1 cup granulated sugar Substitute with brown sugar for richer flavor.1 cup pumpkin puree Canned pumpkin works well.1/2 cup cooking oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil or melted butter.1/2 cup unsalted butter Use melted for a smoother batter.2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice Can substitute with 1 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ginger, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves.1/2 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.1 large egg Ensure it's at room temperature.1 cup all-purpose flour For gluten-free, substitute with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour.1 teaspoon baking powder Ensure it's fresh.For the Espresso Glaze1/4 cup milk Whole milk adds richness.1 tablespoon espresso powder Instant coffee can be used as an alternative.1 cup powdered sugar Sifted for smoother consistency. Equipment 8-inch square panMedium saucepanMicrowave-safe bowlSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Latte BarsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8" square pan or line it with parchment paper.In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, cooking oil, unsalted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until smooth.Remove from heat and let cool for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.Add the room-temperature egg and mix well until fully combined.Sift in all-purpose flour and baking powder, stirring until just combined without lumps.Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.Bake for 32 to 36 minutes, or until the edges pull away from the pan and a toothpick comes out clean.Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.For the espresso glaze, heat milk and espresso powder in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds. Stir in powdered sugar until smooth.Drizzle the espresso glaze over the cooled bars and let set before cutting into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Unglazed bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
