Pumpkin Bars

Enjoy these delectable Pumpkin Bars and all of the comforting fall tastes. These bars, which are ideal for sharing with loved ones, are a lovely combination of creamy pumpkin and toasty spices, and they are finished with a rich cream cheese icing. With every taste of these tasty and moist goodies, get ready to love the season.

Tasting Notes

The Pumpkin Bars boast a rich pumpkin flavor complemented by the perfect balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The velvety cream cheese frosting adds a decadent touch, making each bite a heavenly experience. These bars are not only a crowd-pleaser but also an essential addition to your autumn baking repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy and well combined.
3. Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
4. Cut into squares and serve.

Pro Tips

• For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter before baking.
• Ensure the cream cheese and butter for the frosting are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

Variations

• Add a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top of the cream cheese frosting for a decorative touch.
• Incorporate 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful chocolate twist.

FAQs