Description
Indulge in these moist, spiced pumpkin bars that capture the essence of fall. Perfectly balanced with a tender crumb and topped with a luscious layer of tangy cream cheese frosting, this recipe is designed to be the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert. With an easy one-pan method that saves on cleanup, these bars are perfect for everything from simple weeknight cravings to festive holiday gatherings. Experience bakery-style quality right in your own kitchen with this reliable, family-friendly autumn staple.
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 ginger
1/4 tsp ground cloves
15 oz pure pumpkin puree
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1/4 cup whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan, lining with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
In a separate large bowl, combine the eggs, oil, white sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, milk, and pumpkin puree until uniform.
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until just combined.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack.
Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting is creamy.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars before slicing into 24 squares.
Notes
Ensure all refrigerated items like eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting for best consistency. Do not use canned pumpkin pie filling, as it already contains spices and sweeteners. Store leftover bars in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 145mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg