Description
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a moist and flavorful fall dessert, perfect for gatherings and cozy afternoons. The spiced pumpkin batter baked to perfection is topped with a creamy, sweet frosting, creating a delightful treat that highlights the flavors of the season.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bars:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Stir in the pumpkin puree until evenly combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Bake the Bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious fall treat!
Notes
- For an extra festive touch, top with chopped pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, or pumpkin spice.
- Bars can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator to keep fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
