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Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Deliciously moist pumpkin bars topped with rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for family gatherings and cooler months.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (optional: use a Halal-friendly butter alternative)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (use a Halal-certified extract)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  5. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and pour the batter in, spreading it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until creamy.
  3. Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting on top.
Serving
  1. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Notes

For added nutrition, try using half whole wheat flour. Feel free to add walnuts or pecans for a crunch. Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.