Pumpkin Bars with Frosting: The Ultimate Fall Dessert Recipe

Pumpkin bars with frosting are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the essence of fall. As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, these moist, spiced bars become a staple in many households. Originating from traditional pumpkin desserts, they have evolved into a beloved favorite for gatherings, potlucks, and cozy family nights. The combination of warm pumpkin flavor and creamy frosting creates a harmonious balance that keeps everyone coming back for more.

What I love most about pumpkin bars with frosting is their incredible texture—soft and chewy, yet rich and satisfying. They are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert or a sweet snack, these bars are sure to bring joy to your table and warm your heart. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that celebrates the flavors of the season!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, making it light and fluffy.
4. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, so make sure it’s evenly mixed.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.

Baking the Pumpkin Bars

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This helps to ensure that the bars bake evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.
3. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for the frosting to adhere properly later on.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. While the pumpkin bars are cooling, it’s time to make the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until it’s fully incorporated. This helps to prevent a sugar cloud from forming!
3. Once the sugar is mixed in, add the vanilla extract and beat on medium speed until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Assembling the Pumpkin Bars

1. Once the pumpkin bars are completely cool, it’s time to frost them. Use a spatula to spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the bars. You can be generous with the frosting; it’s one of the best parts!
2. If you want to add a decorative touch, consider sprinkling a little extra cinnamon or chopped nuts on top of the frosting.
3. Cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. I usually go for about 2×2 inch squares, but you can make them larger or smaller as you like.
4. Serve the pumpkin bars immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They taste

Conclusion:

In summary, these pumpkin bars with frosting are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a deliciously spiced treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The moist, tender texture of the bars combined with the creamy frosting creates a delightful balance that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy gathering, a festive holiday party, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee on a crisp afternoon, these pumpkin bars are sure to impress. For a fun twist, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra layer of flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different frostings, such as cream cheese or maple, to suit your personal taste. The versatility of this recipe means you can make it your own! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin for yourself. Once you’ve baked up a batch, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of these pumpkin bars with frosting together! Happy baking!

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