Soft Pumpkin Bars
These soft pumpkin bars are easy to make with a comforting flavor and creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bars
- 1⅔ cups granulated sugar sweetness
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil moisture
- 3 large eggs binding agent
- 1 15 oz can pure pumpkin puree richness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract flavor
- 2 cups all-purpose flour structure
- 2 teaspoons baking powder leavening
- 1 teaspoon baking soda leavening
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon warm spice flavor
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice spice blend flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt balance
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese richness for frosting
- 1/2 cup butter flavor and texture for frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar sweetness and texture for frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract flavor for frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until fluffy.
- Stir in the eggs one by one, followed by the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate measuring cup, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until no flour streaks remain.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely in the pan.
Frosting
- Beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing, then add vanilla extract and beat for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled pumpkin bars evenly.
Notes
For best results, ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Avoid overmixing the batter and let the bars cool completely before frosting.