Description
Indulgent pumpkin bars showcase autumn’s warmest spices in a delightful dessert that dances between sweet and comforting. Creamy layers and rich textures invite fall celebrations, promising delicious moments shared with loved ones.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
Flour and Spices:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F and positioning a rack in the center. Prepare a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with a light coating of grease or parchment paper.
- Create the base mixture by vigorously whisking eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin until the texture becomes uniform and silky.
- In a separate vessel, sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda to eliminate potential lumps and ensure even distribution.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient blend into the pumpkin mixture, stirring with minimal manipulation to maintain a tender crumb.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and create a smooth surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring for a golden surface and checking doneness with a inserted toothpick that emerges clean.
- Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack, which prevents excess moisture accumulation.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by blending cream cheese and butter until achieving a smooth, consistent texture.
- Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla, whipping until the frosting reaches a luxurious, spreadable consistency.
- Once the bars have cooled entirely, generously apply the cream cheese frosting across the entire surface.
- Slice into rectangular portions and serve at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Prep Ahead Magic: Mix dry and wet ingredients separately to ensure even distribution and prevent lumpy batter.
- Moisture Mastery: Use vegetable oil instead of butter for extra softness and tender texture in your pumpkin bars.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe celiac-friendly without compromising taste.
- Spice Flexibility: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice or add nutmeg for a deeper, more complex autumn flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 199
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 37 mg