Easy Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

These easy pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are a delicious fall treat that are perfect for serving at gatherings or parties. The moist and tender pumpkin spice bars are made even better with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a dessert after dinner, these bars are sure to satisfy your pumpkin cravings.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Moist and delicious pumpkin bars
• Creamy and sweet cream cheese frosting
• Easy to make and perfect for serving to guests

Ingredients and Substitutions

For the pumpkin bars, you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder and baking soda
• Salt
• Cinnamon and allspice
• White granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Applesauce
• Vegetable oil
• Pumpkin puree
• Eggs

For the cream cheese frosting, you’ll need:

• Butter
• Cream cheese
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar

Variations

• Add chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans to the pumpkin bar batter for added texture and flavor
• Decorate the bars with candied nuts for an extra crunch
• For a spicier frosting, add a tablespoon of pumpkin spice to the cream cheese frosting

How to Make

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the wet ingredients
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the dry ingredients
3. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined
4. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan
5. Bake at 350℉ for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean
6. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy
7. Add vanilla extract and gradually add powdered sugar until well incorporated
8. Spread the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled pumpkin bars

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the bars with a dollop of homemade whipped cream
• Pair them with cinnamon or eggnog ice cream for a delicious dessert
• Try topping them with salted caramel frosting for a sweet and salty twist

How to Store

If not serving immediately, store the pumpkin bars without frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If frosted, refrigerate for up to five days. The bars can also be frozen for up to six months.

Source: Easy Pumpkin Bars