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Soft & Moist Spiced Pumpkin Bars

These soft pumpkin bars, brimming with warm spices, are perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful treat any time of day.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bars
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Structure
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Leavening
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon Warm spice flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Leavening
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg Warm spice flavor
  • 4 large eggs Binding and moisture
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar Sweetness
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Moisture and richness
  • 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree Moisture and flavor
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup Adds depth of flavor
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Flavor enhancement

For the Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened For creamy frosting
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened Contributes to creaminess
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Flavor enhancement
  • Pinch salt Enhances flavor
  • 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar For frosting thickness

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare the 9x13 inch baking dish by buttering or greasing it.
  • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and nutmeg.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
  • Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Frosting

  • For the frosting, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl until smooth.
  • Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the cream cheese mixture, and mix until incorporated.
  • Gradually mix in powdered sugar until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
  • Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting generously over the top.

Serving

  • Slice the bars into rectangles or squares for serving and enjoy at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

Use room-temperature ingredients for frosting for a smooth blend. Be cautious not to overmix the batter to maintain lightness.
Keyword comfort food, Fall Recipes, Pumpkin Bars, Spiced Dessert