For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon milk (optional, for consistency)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions :
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Lightly coat the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, blend the eggs, pure vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing at low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the pure vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach the desired spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Bars: Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting into an even layer.
- Serve: Cut the frosted pumpkin bars into squares or rectangles of your desired size. Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not only a delicious dessert but also a delightful way to savor the flavors of fall. The moist, spiced pumpkin base, infused with hints of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, captures the essence of autumn in every bite. The creamy, tangy frosting, made with rich cream cheese and a touch of vanilla, adds a luxurious layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the earthy pumpkin undertones. Each bar offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that make this dessert irresistible.
Whether you serve them at a festive gathering, such as a Thanksgiving feast or a Halloween party, these pumpkin bars are sure to be the highlight of the dessert table. Their vibrant orange hue and delectable aroma draw people in, while the satisfying taste keeps them coming back for more. These bars are also ideal for everyday indulgence, providing a comforting treat that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea. As an afternoon snack or a post-dinner delight, they bring a sense of coziness and contentment.
These bars are bound to become a seasonal favorite, not just for their incredible taste but also for their versatility and ease of preparation. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient option for busy schedules. Plus, they travel well, so you can bring them to potlucks, picnics, or share them with neighbors and friends. Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of autumn in every bite, and create lasting memories with each delicious piece. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply to celebrate the beauty of fall, these Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a testament to the joy of seasonal baking.
