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Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese

Delightful pumpkin bars topped with creamy frosting, perfect for autumn gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Mixing Ingredients
  1. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
  2. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  2. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling completely before frosting.
Frosting
  1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  2. Once the bars are cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting. You can use whole wheat flour or unsweetened applesauce as a healthier option. Store in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days.