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Pumpkin Bars

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Pumpkin Bars are moist, spiced bar-style cake with a tender crumb and optional creamy frosting. They combine the cozy flavors of pumpkin and warm spices into an easy one‑bowl dessert perfect for fall or anytime.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
  • For the frosting (optional):
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil (or melted butter), and eggs until smooth and well combined.
  3. In the same bowl (or a separate one), stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. If using, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips gently.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
  8. To make the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy and spreadable.
  9. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars. Cut into 16–20 squares and serve.

Notes

  • You can skip frosting or replace it with a maple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.
  • Half the oil can be replaced with applesauce for a lighter version.
  • Use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for convenience.
  • Ensure bars are fully cooled before frosting to prevent frosting from melting.
  • To freeze, wrap bars (frosted or not) in parchment and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/pumpkin-bars/