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Pumpkin Bars

These pumpkin bars offer a delicious combination of moist cake-like texture and creamy frosting, perfect for fall gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baked Goods
Calories: 275
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Can substitute half with unsweetened applesauce.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Can reduce by 25%.
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed Can reduce by 25%.
  • 1 15 oz can pure pumpkin puree Not pumpkin pie filling.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • pinch salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10-inch pan with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy lifting. Lightly spray with non-stick spray.
  2. In one bowl, whisk dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt) for even distribution.
  3. In another bowl, beat together eggs, sugars, and oil until frothy and combined. Mix in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually fold in dry ingredients just until combined — do not overmix.
Baking
  1. Spread the thick batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, rotating halfway through.
  2. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack (about 1 hour) before frosting.
Frosting and Serving
  1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Whip until fluffy and spread evenly over cooled bars.
  3. Lift the bars out with the parchment, slice, and serve.

Notes

For healthier alternatives, reduce sugar, substitute sugars, or use gluten-free options as needed. Perfect for various dietary needs!