Pumpkin Bars Recipe - Delicious Fall Treat

Pumpkin bars are a fall favorite for many baking enthusiasts, families, and Halloween lovers. They offer a delightful combination of moist pumpkin cake and creamy frosting, perfect for any autumn gathering or cozy day at home. Let's get started on this crowd-pleasing recipe!

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make these delicious pumpkin bars:

Essential Ingredients

• 1 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil (for a healthier option)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour for a GF option)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Ingredients for Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg)
• Add-ins: Chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor

Preparation

Follow these detailed steps to prepare the batter:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil and sugar until well combined.
3. Add in the eggs (or flax eggs) one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the pumpkin puree until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your bars.
7. If using add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter.

Baking

Now, let's bake those pumpkin bars:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Frosting (Optional)

If you want to take your pumpkin bars to the next level, try this delicious cream cheese frosting:

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Preparation

1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy and well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. If you prefer your bars unfrosted, a simple dusting of powdered sugar can also be delightful.

Serving and Storing

Serving Tips

• Cut the pumpkin bars into squares or rectangles for easy serving.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped nuts for added flair.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• You can also freeze the bars (frosted or unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and devouring these scrumptious pumpkin bars as much as we do! Don't forget to share your creations and experiences with us. Happy baking, and enjoy the flavors of fall!