A delightful combination of seasonal spices and creamy sweetness that embodies autumn in every bite. These bars feature a fluffy pumpkin base topped with rich cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
To prepare the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve.