Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with our Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe! These bars are the epitome of fall comfort, combining the warm earthiness of pumpkin with the creamy tang of cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re a pumpkin enthusiast or simply looking to indulge in a seasonal treat, this recipe is sure to captivate your taste buds and fill your home with the cozy aromas of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect blend of sweet pumpkin and rich cream cheese.
• Great for gatherings, potlucks, or afternoon snacks.
• Easy to make and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
• Versatile – ideal for both casual and formal occasions.

What Is Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Pumpkin bars are moist and tender dessert bars made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness. Topped with a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting, these bars strike the right balance between pumpkin flavor and velvety creaminess. They are like a cross between pumpkin pie and cake, offering a delectable treat that is easy to share and enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:

For the Pumpkin Bars:

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

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

How to Make Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Follow these simple steps to create these amazing Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a separate large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Frost the Bars

1. Once the pumpkin bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Optionally, sprinkle some ground cinnamon or chopped nuts for additional garnish.
3. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delectable pumpkin and cream cheese goodness!

Tips for Success

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal baking results.
• Do not overmix the batter to prevent a dense texture in the bars.
• Adjust the spices to your preference for a more personalized flavor profile.
• Store the bars in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

Recipe Variations

For a fun twist, consider incorporating the following variations into your Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the batter for extra texture.
• Sprinkle a crumb topping over the bars before baking for a crunchy contrast.
• Drizzle caramel sauce over the cream cheese frosting for a decadent touch.
• Swap the pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potatoes for a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve With It

These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments, such as:

• Hot apple cider or pumpkin spice latte
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Fall fruits like sliced apples or pears
• A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra spice kick

Meal Prep & Storage

To prepare ahead, you can bake the pumpkin bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting can be made ahead and refrigerated separately. When ready to enjoy, simply frost the bars and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Can I freeze these bars? Yes, you can freeze the bars (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Can I use a different frosting? While the cream cheese frosting complements the pumpkin bars perfectly, you can certainly explore other frostings like caramel or maple glaze.
• Can I make these bars eggless? You can try using commercial egg replacers or applesauce as a substitute for eggs.

Final Thoughts

As the season changes and the aroma of spices fills the air, these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful way to savor the flavors of fall. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy treat, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of pumpkin and cream cheese that will surely become a favorite in your repertoire. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the baking commence!

Thank you for joining us on this culinary adventure!