Description
Scrumptious pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting deliver autumn’s warmest embrace, melding spicy richness with smooth, tangy sweetness. Seasonal comfort beckons you to savor each delectable bite of this irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Pumpkin Bars:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Sweeteners and Flavoring:
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment at 350°F and coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with a light greasing to prevent sticking.
- Create a dry ingredient medley by whisking flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a mixing bowl until evenly distributed.
- In a separate large vessel, blend granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract into a harmonious, smooth liquid mixture.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient ensemble into the wet mixture, stirring with minimal agitation until ingredients are just incorporated.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, ensuring even distribution and spreading to the edges.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring for a clean toothpick test when inserted into the center.
- Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, which helps set the texture.
- Craft the cream cheese frosting by whipping softened cream cheese and butter until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
- Gradually introduce powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and an optional pinch of salt, continuing to blend until the frosting reaches a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Once the pumpkin bars have cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting across the surface in a smooth, even layer.
- Slice into square portions and serve, revealing the delectable layers of spiced pumpkin and creamy frosting.
Notes
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and smoother texture.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for enhanced flavor, but canned works perfectly fine if homemade isn’t available.
- Swap vegetable oil with applesauce or Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier version of the bars.
- Check doneness by gently pressing the center – it should spring back and not leave an indentation when fully baked.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg