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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the arrival of fall brings with it a delightful array of flavors and aromas that evoke warmth and comfort. One of the season's most beloved ingredients is pumpkin, a versatile fruit that not only enhances the visual appeal of autumn but also lends itself beautifully to a variety of sweet treats. Among the most popular of these is the pumpkin bar—a delectable dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Experience the flavors of fall with these luscious Fall Harvest Pumpkin Bars topped with cream cheese frosting. Perfectly moist and infused with warm spices, these bars are a delightful treat for any autumn gathering. Our easy-to-follow recipe guides you through each step, from mixing the batter to achieving a smooth frosting. Whether served at a festive event or enjoyed at home, these bars promise to bring warmth and joy to your season. Dive into this comforting dessert and delight your friends and family with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

½ cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 cup canned pure pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

3 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Whisk together until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Set this mixture aside for later use.

      Combine Sugars and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is well blended and smooth. Next, add the eggs, canned pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat the mixture until it is creamy and uniform in texture.

        Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the dry ingredients in until just combined. Take care not to overmix to keep the bars tender.

          Bake the Bars: Pour the prepared pumpkin batter into the greased or lined baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bars comes out clean. Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack.

            Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using an electric mixer, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until the frosting is fluffy and light.

              Frost the Bars: When the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, take the cream cheese frosting and spread it evenly over the top of the bars using a spatula. Once frosted, cut the bars into squares or rectangles.

                Serve and Enjoy: The pumpkin bars can be served at room temperature or chilled, making them a delightful treat for autumn gatherings or cozy evenings at home!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 16