Description
Moist, spiced pumpkin bars topped with creamy, tangy frosting. A nostalgic fall dessert perfect for gatherings or cozy afternoons.
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
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 4 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices until well combined.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, and oil until smooth, then mix in pumpkin puree.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan, spread evenly, and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla, then gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars, cut into squares, and serve.
Notes
Store frosted bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For a lighter option, dust with powdered sugar instead of frosting. These bars freeze well unfrosted for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American