Ingredients:
For the Bars:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Pumpkin: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Bars: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Frost the Bars: Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Cut and Serve: Cut the pumpkin bars into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
These Delicious Pumpkin Bars are perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or anytime you’re in the mood for a tasty pumpkin treat. Enjoy!