Description
These Pumpkin Bars are moist, perfectly spiced, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. A perfect treat for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or when you’re craving a cozy dessert with the flavors of pumpkin and warm spices!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pumpkin Bars:
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
-
Make the Pumpkin Bars:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
-
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
-
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
-
Frost the Bars:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Add flavor: Add 1/4 tsp of allspice or cloves for extra warmth.
- Make it lighter: Substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.