Description
Soft, spiced pumpkin bars topped with velvety cream cheese frosting—perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually fold in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top.
- Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of ginger or cloves. Chocolate chips or shredded coconut can be added for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American