Pin it Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting—an irresistibly cozy fall treat perfect for any gathering.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite during autumns and holidays with its comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- For the Pumpkin Bars: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the Brown Sugar Frosting: 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter softened, 4 ounces cream cheese softened, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 4 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Step 6:
- Fold in walnuts or pecans, if using.
- Step 7:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 30 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 9:
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Step 10:
- For the frosting In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 11:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Step 12:
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Step 13:
- Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Step 14:
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Pin it These bars always bring smiles at family gatherings, evoking warm memories with every bite.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 310, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 43 g, Protein: 3 g per serving.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter, cream cheese), and tree nuts if walnuts or pecans are used.
Required Tools
9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer or hand mixer, spatula, wire cooling rack, measuring cups and spoons.
Pin it Pumpkin bars with brown sugar frosting are the perfect seasonal treat to share with loved ones.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What spices are used in these bars?
The bars include ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a warm, cozy flavor.
- → Can I add nuts to the bars?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- → How do I ensure the frosting doesn't melt?
Make sure the bars are completely cooled before applying the brown sugar cream cheese frosting to prevent melting.
- → Is it possible to lighten the texture of the bars?
Substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce to create a lighter, moist texture.
- → How should these bars be stored?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.