Pumpkin Bars

Pumpkin Bars

Pumpkin bars are a delightful treat, combining the warm spices of fall with a moist, flavorful base made from pumpkin puree. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, these bars are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. Whip up a batch of these irresistible pumpkin bars, and enjoy the sweet taste of autumn!

Why Make This Recipe

Making pumpkin bars is not only easy but also a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall. They are soft, moist, and packed with spices that bring comfort to every bite. In addition, they are perfect for sharing, making them an excellent choice for potlucks or parties. Plus, with a simple cream cheese frosting on top, there’s no way anyone can resist these delicious bars.

How to Make Pumpkin Bars

Ingredients:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 15-ounce can 100% pure pumpkin puree (Libby’s brand)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• ½ cup canola oil
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 8 ounces block cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 inch straight-sided metal baking pan with non-stick baker’s spray and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pure pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until well mixed.

4. Add the canola oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

5. Stir in the dry ingredients from the small bowl to the wet ingredients. Whisk just until combined, making sure no lumps or dry flour streaks remain.

6. Spread the pumpkin bar batter evenly into the prepared baking pan using an offset spatula.

7. Bake the pumpkin bars for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

8. Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely to room temperature before adding the cream cheese frosting.

9. To make the cream cheese frosting, mix the cream cheese and unsalted butter in a large bowl. Beat on medium speed with a handheld mixer for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.

10. Add the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Then add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix for 1-2 minutes until the frosting is smooth, light, and fluffy.

11. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. Cut into squares and serve.

How to Serve Pumpkin Bars

Serve pumpkin bars at room temperature as a sweet treat. They are great on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also pair them with cold beverages like coffee, tea, or apple cider.

How to Store Pumpkin Bars

Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they are fully cooled before covering them to prevent moisture buildup. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just wrap each bar tightly before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Bars

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can enhance the flavor of your bars, making them even more aromatic.
• Check for doneness: Oven temperatures may vary, so start checking your bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best results in the mixing process.

Variation

You can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture. Also, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for an appealing crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I make pumpkin bars without eggs?
   Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture for a vegan option.

2. How long do pumpkin bars last?
   Properly stored pumpkin bars can last up to a week in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer.

3. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
   Absolutely! Just cook and puree fresh pumpkin to use as a substitute for canned pumpkin puree. Make sure it’s well drained to avoid excess moisture.

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful pumpkin bars!