Description
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are moist, flavorful, and perfect for fall gatherings. Combining the warm spices of cinnamon with a rich pumpkin base, topped with a smooth and creamy frosting, they offer a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pumpkin Bars
- 1 cup butter, at room temperature
- 1 â…” cup sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin (or squash)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 18×13-inch half-sheet pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and light. Add the eggs and mix well until fully combined. Stir in the canned pumpkin, then gradually incorporate the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth, uniform batter.
- Bake the bars: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it flat. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare the frosting: Using a mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
- Frost and serve: Once the pumpkin bars have fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares to serve and enjoy this delicious seasonal treat!
Notes
- Ensure the pumpkin is pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best flavor and texture.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture.
- Store the frosted bars in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
- If desired, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top of the frosting for extra spice aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
