Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
A cozy fall dessert featuring moist pumpkin bars topped with rich and creamy frosting, perfect for gatherings or a warm treat.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bars
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack.
Frosting Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until light and fluffy.
Serving
- Once the pumpkin bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Storage: Keep at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container or refrigerate for up to a week. Freezing: Cut into squares and freeze in a single layer for up to 3 months. Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for variation.