Description
Moist, spiced pumpkin bars topped with tangy cream cheese frosting. A nostalgic fall dessert perfect for holidays and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 4 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In a separate large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in pumpkin puree.
- Add dry ingredients to wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- To make frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
Store frosted bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Serve with coffee, cider, or chai for a cozy fall treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American