Name: Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Cake Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489749H24M39S
Total time: PT-489749H24M39S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil

Why You’ll Love Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Cake Bars Recipe

Perfectly spiced with classic fall flavors
Packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese
Moist and tender without being overly sweet
Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients
A great alternative to traditional pumpkin desserts
Can be enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or dessert
Freezer-friendly for easy meal prep
Kid-friendly and great for lunchboxes
Customizable with mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips
Balanced texture with a cake-like crumb

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cottage cheese
Pumpkin puree
Eggs
Brown sugar
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Pumpkin pie spice
Cinnamon
Salt
Vanilla extract
Olive oil or melted coconut oil

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, blended cottage cheese, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and oil until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 9 bars.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 55–60 minutes

Variations

Add chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks for extra sweetness
Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
Swap brown sugar for maple syrup or coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile
Use whole wheat flour for added fiber
Top with a light glaze or cream cheese frosting for a more decadent dessert
Make it dairy-free by using a plant-based cottage cheese substitute

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap each bar individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave for 15–20 seconds or allow to come to room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

What does cottage cheese do in baking?

Cottage cheese adds moisture and a creamy texture while boosting the protein content. When blended, it incorporates smoothly into batters.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be substituted in equal amounts, though the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. These bars store well and taste great the next day, making them ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, just ensure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly. Homemade pumpkin puree tends to have more moisture, so you may need to reduce the liquid slightly.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bars are ready.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar by a few tablespoons or use a natural sweetener alternative, but it may affect sweetness and texture.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Definitely! They’re naturally sweetened, high in protein, and great for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time to around 35–40 minutes.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt for a cozy treat.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Spice Cake Bars offer a delicious blend of nutrition and indulgence. With the richness of cottage cheese and the warmth of pumpkin spice, they make for a satisfying treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, snack, or dessert, these bars are sure to become a fall favorite.