These cinnamon swirl pumpkin cake bars are the perfect combination of indulgent flavor and wholesome ingredients. Using Greek yogurt in place of butter or oil, this recipe creates a moist and fluffy cake while keeping it on the healthier side. Swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar topping, these bars offer a warm, cozy flavor with every bite. Perfect for fall or any time you crave a treat that’s both satisfying and guilt-free, these pumpkin cake bars will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: You’ll love these pumpkin cake bars for their tender, moist texture and rich cinnamon swirl topping. By replacing butter with Greek yogurt, you get all the moisture and richness without the extra fat, making this a healthier version of a traditional cake. The warm pumpkin spice flavors combined with the sweetness of the cinnamon swirl make this a perfect treat for fall. Plus, the recipe is easy to make with simple ingredients, making it a great option for both novice and experienced bakers.
Perfect Occasion: These cinnamon swirl pumpkin cake bars are perfect for fall gatherings, weekend baking, or as a snack to enjoy with your morning coffee. They’re ideal for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or even just as a mid-week indulgence. Whether you’re serving them at a casual family get-together or baking them as a cozy treat for yourself, these bars will always hit the spot.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful presentation, drizzle the bars with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk, or sprinkle them lightly with powdered sugar. You can also garnish with a few extra cinnamon sprinkles or a dusting of cinnamon sugar for a festive touch. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, top the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the flavors even further.
Ingredients for the Cake Bars:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp cane sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly with non-stick spray. - Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the pumpkin puree and Greek yogurt. Stir until smooth. Then, mix in the sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. - Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. - Combine Wet and Dry:
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser texture. - Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cane sugar, and cinnamon until combined. This will create a thick, sugary swirl mixture. - Assemble the Cake Bars:
Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top of the batter, and use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cake batter. - Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. - Cool and Top with Icing (Optional):
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. If you’d like, you can make a simple icing by mixing powdered sugar and milk, then drizzle it over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy your delicious and healthier cinnamon swirl pumpkin cake bars—perfect for any occasion!
Storage Tip:
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them to keep them fresh for up to a week. If you prefer, you can freeze individual slices and thaw them whenever you’re ready for a sweet treat.
