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Pumpkin Bars with Creamy Cheese Frosting

Delicious and easy-to-make pumpkin bars topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for fall celebrations.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree Sweet and earthy, provides moistness.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Gives structure to the bars.
  • 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar Balances spices and enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Gives the bars lift and texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Evokes the essence of autumn.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Adds depth to the flavor profile.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Salt Enhances all other flavors.
  • 2 large Eggs Binds the ingredients; adds moisture.
  • 1 cup Vegetable Oil Keeps the bars moist.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Provides a rich and creamy texture.
  • 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter Adds rich flavor to frosting.
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar Sweetness for the frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances frosting flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Whisk in the eggs one at a time.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool the bars in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. Beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
  3. Frost the cooled pumpkin bars generously and cut into squares.

Notes

For added flavor, consider folding in chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Use whole wheat flour or coconut oil for healthier variations. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.