Autumn Bliss: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting – A Seasonal Favorite!

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange, there’s no better way to celebrate the cozy season than with a delightful treat. These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect autumn dessert, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with a luscious cream cheese topping. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home, these bars are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.

Ingredients : 

For the Pumpkin Bars:

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon milk (optional, for consistency)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions : 

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Lightly coat the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, blend the eggs, pure vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely before frosting.
5. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing at low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the pure vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach the desired spreadable consistency.
6. Frost the Bars: Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting into an even layer.
7. Serve: Cut the frosted pumpkin bars into squares or rectangles of your desired size. Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.