Here’s a recipe for The Best Pumpkin Bars I’ve Ever Had — soft, spiced, and topped with a creamy frosting for the perfect fall treat!
Ingredients:
For the pumpkin bars:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
For the pumpkin bars:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick spray.
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
- Prepare the wet ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
- Add the vegetable oil and mix until well combined.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula or mixer on low speed, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the pumpkin bars:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the cream cheese frosting:
- Make the frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
- Frost the pumpkin bars:
- Once the pumpkin bars have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
- Serve:
- Cut the bars into squares or rectangles and enjoy the soft, spiced pumpkin flavor topped with creamy frosting!
Tips:
- These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also sprinkle them with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Enjoy The Best Pumpkin Bars—a perfect fall dessert with the right amount of spice and sweetness! 🎃🍂🍰
