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Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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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

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.