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Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, moist, and full of warm spices. Topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting, they’re the perfect fall treat. Whether for a party, family gathering, or just a cozy snack, these bars are easy to make and deliciously satisfying!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars

  • 2 cups 0.5 lb all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup 0.5 lb granulated sugar
  • ½ cup 0.25 lb brown sugar
  • 1 cup 0.24 L vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup 0.24 L pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz 0.5 lb cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup 0.25 lb unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups 0.5 lb powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Bars

  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

  • Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  • Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
  • Add a Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for extra crunch.
  • Serving Tip: These bars pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy autumn treat.
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