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Pumpkin Bars

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting


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  • Author: Amanda Hartwellen
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Moist and spiced pumpkin bars topped with creamy, sweet cream cheese frosting. A cozy fall dessert perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a comforting autumn treat.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Bars:

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger

  • 1/8 tsp ground cloves

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1/2 tsp baking soda

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 4 oz cream cheese

  • 3 tbsp butter, softened

  • 1 tsp milk

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 cup powdered sugar


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment and lightly spray with non-stick spray.

  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, spices, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

  • In a separate bowl (or stand mixer), mix eggs, vanilla, oil, and pumpkin until smooth and fluffy.

  • Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.

  • Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

  • Cool completely on a wire rack.

  • For frosting: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, then vanilla and milk, mixing until spreadable.

  • Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars, slice, and serve.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter; fold gently for tender bars.

Ensure bars are completely cool before frosting.

Add nutmeg for extra spice if desired.

Store in fridge up to 5 days; freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American