Go Back
Delicious pumpkin bars made with sourdough discard, topped with cream cheese icing.

Pumpkin Bars with Sourdough Discard

A delightful dessert combining pumpkin and sourdough for a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bars
Calories 238 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars

  • 225 grams canned pumpkin provides moisture
  • 100 grams sourdough discard adds moisture and tang
  • 100 grams brown sugar provides sweetness and moisture
  • 30 grams granulated sugar for sweetness
  • 65 grams liquid coconut oil adds moisture
  • 1 large egg binds ingredients
  • 4 grams vanilla extract for flavor
  • 100 grams all-purpose flour provides structure
  • 3 grams baking powder leavening agent
  • 2 grams baking soda leavening agent
  • 4 grams cinnamon warm spice flavor
  • 4 grams pumpkin pie spice adds depth of flavor
  • 3 grams salt enhances overall flavor

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 30 grams cream cheese richness in frosting
  • 55 grams unsalted butter richness in frosting
  • 120 grams powdered sugar sweetness in frosting
  • 4 grams vanilla extract for frosting flavor
  • splash cream for consistency of frosting
  • pinch salt enhances frosting flavor

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin and sourdough discard, stirring until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and liquid coconut oil until well combined.
  • Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Beat well until light and fluffy.
  • In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk to combine.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Baking

  • Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Bake for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Frosting

  • While the bars cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by combining softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat until smooth.
  • Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the frosting mixture. Mix well.

Finishing Touches

  • Once the pumpkin bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
  • Cut the bars into squares or rectangles for serving.

Notes

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness. Store the bars in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Keyword Baking, Comfort Dessert, Fall Treat, Pumpkin Bars, sourdough discard