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Thanksgiving Pumpkin Bars

A nostalgic blend of pumpkin and spices topped with creamy frosting, perfect for the autumn season and Thanksgiving celebrations.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Bars
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree Use canned or homemade for richer flavor.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs Ensure they are at room temperature.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
  4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Making the Frosting
  1. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Finishing Touches
  1. Once the bars are cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  2. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

The bars can be served warm or chilled. For added texture, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.