In the heart of autumn, the flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg fill the air, infusing every home with warmth and comfort. If you're looking to embrace the spirit of fall, there's no better way than indulging in some Pumpkin Bars. These easy-to-make, delicious treats combine the best of pumpkin with a subtly sweet, cake-like texture, topped with a creamy frosting that will delight your taste buds. Here's how you can bring this seasonal delight right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 15-ounce can pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Frosting
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparing the Pumpkin Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal of the bars after baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and ground cloves.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the pumpkin and oil, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the pecans.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Making the Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Increase to high speed and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
- Frost: Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for texture and decoration.
🍂 Note: Ensure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting. If you're in a hurry, you can chill the bars in the refrigerator for faster cooling.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Bars
- Keep it Fresh: Use real pumpkin puree rather than the pumpkin pie mix for a more authentic pumpkin flavor.
- Texture Matters: Don't overmix the batter once you add the flour; overmixing can make the bars dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared up to a day in advance. Simply refrigerate them overnight, and the flavor will deepen even more.
- Optional Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger or nutmeg to customize the taste to your liking.
🍽️ Note: For a healthier option, you can substitute half of the vegetable oil with an equal amount of applesauce to reduce the calorie count without sacrificing too much on the moist texture.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Bars embody the spirit of autumn, offering a simple yet delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family gathering or a festive fall party. Their ease of preparation, combined with the delightful blend of spices, makes them a favorite. Once you've savored your first bite, you'll understand why they are a staple in fall desserts. Try this recipe, and let the scent of pumpkin and spices fill your home, evoking the cozy feelings of the season.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
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Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just roast, puree, and strain to remove excess liquid, aiming for the same consistency as canned pumpkin.
How long will Pumpkin Bars keep?
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When stored in an airtight container, they’ll keep well for up to a week in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to three months.
Can I make these gluten-free?
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Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
