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Pumpkin Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting

Deliciously soft pumpkin bars topped with creamy brown sugar frosting, perfect for autumn gatherings and cozy nights in.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Essential for that nice, chewy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps the bars rise beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon The quintessential fall spice.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds a warm, nutty flavor.
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves Just a hint of spice for warmth.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar For that lovely sweet touch.
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil Keeps everything moist and tender.
  • 2 large eggs A binding element for the bars.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree This is the star of the show!
  • 0.5 cups chopped walnuts or pecans Optional for a delightful crunch.
For the Frosting
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter Softened, perfect for creamy frosting.
  • 4 ounces cream cheese Softened for a rich texture.
  • 3 cups powdered sugar For that sought-after sweetness.
  • 0.5 cups packed light brown sugar Adds depth and flavor to the frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A must for that cozy aroma.
  • 2-4 tablespoons milk or cream To achieve the perfect frosting consistency.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan, then dust it with flour.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and combined.
  4. Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  6. If using nuts, stir them in now, then pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Once baked, let the bars cool completely before frosting them.
Frosting
  1. Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered and brown sugar, mixing until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is spreadable but still has body.
  4. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
  5. Cut them into squares, and they’re ready to be devoured!

Notes

You can make the bars a day in advance. If the bars seem dry, check your baking time. For a flavor twist, add orange zest.