Let’s dive into the world of autumn flavors with these irresistible pumpkin bars topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any fall gathering or just because you deserve a treat!
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a moist, flavorful base that’s perfectly balanced by the tangy sweetness of the cream cheese frosting.
- Using canned pumpkin puree ensures consistency and saves time, making this recipe both easy and foolproof.
- The bars are baked to perfection, offering a soft texture that pairs wonderfully with the smooth frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- For the frosting: 8 oz cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing your 9×13 inch baking pan. This ensures your pumpkin bars won’t stick and will bake evenly. Tip: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes removal even easier!
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vegetable oil. Beat them together until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing well after each addition to ensure a uniform texture.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices throughout the batter.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: Avoid overbaking to keep the bars moist!
Frost and Serve
Once the bars are completely cool, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the frosting evenly over the bars. Tip: For best results, let the frosting set for a bit before cutting into squares.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the spices before adding them to the dry ingredients. This enhances their aroma and depth. If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought cream cheese frosting, but homemade is always superior in taste and texture. For a decorative touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top of the frosting before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Swap the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze for a different kind of sweetness.
- Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s thick and not watery. Canned pumpkin is preferred for its consistency and convenience.
How should I store these pumpkin bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months, just thaw before serving.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars actually taste better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just wait to frost them until you’re ready to serve.
Summary
These pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are a must-try for anyone who loves fall flavors. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re perfect for any occasion.