Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Deliciously moist pumpkin bars topped with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour provides structure
- 2 teaspoons baking powder leavening agent for rise
- 1 teaspoon baking soda aids in leavening
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt enhances flavor
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice complex spiced flavor
- 2 cups granulated sugar sweetens the bars
- 1 cup canola oil moisture and richness
- 4 large eggs binds and adds moisture
- 15 ounces pumpkin puree provides moisture and flavor
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese base for the frosting
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter adds richness to frosting
- 2 tablespoons sour cream adds tang and moisture
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract enhances flavor
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt enhances flavor in frosting
- 1½ cups powdered sugar sweetens the frosting
- 1 cup roasted chopped pecans optional, adds crunch and flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a rimmed sheet pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk together until fully blended.
Mixing Batter
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the granulated sugar and canola oil, beating until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition.
- Mix in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture, mixing until fully combined.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the pumpkin bars to cool in the pan.
Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth to create a base for your frosting.
- Add the unsalted butter, sour cream, vanilla extract, and kosher salt, beating until incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully blended.
- Frost the cooled pumpkin bars and sprinkle with roasted chopped pecans if desired.
Notes
Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting. For best results, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before use.