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Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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These old-fashioned pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are a cozy fall treat with a moist, spiced cake base and creamy, tangy frosting. Perfect for potlucks, holiday baking, or weekly treats.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin purée
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix pumpkin purée, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
  5. Gradually stir dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
  6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let bars cool completely in the pan.
  9. Meanwhile, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
  10. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until frosting is smooth and fluffy.
  11. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
  12. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty texture.
  • Use plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • Add a splash of maple extract to the frosting for a seasonal flavor twist.
  • Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen (unfrosted) for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/old-fashioned-pumpkin-bars-with-cream-cheese-frosting/