Pumpkin Bars Brown Sugar Frosting (Print Version)

Warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with creamy brown sugar frosting for a cozy fall treat.

# Components:

→ Pumpkin Bars

01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
05 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
08 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
11 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

→ Brown Sugar Frosting

12 - 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
13 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
14 - 3 cups powdered sugar
15 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
16 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
17 - 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
04 - Stir pumpkin puree into the wet mixture until fully blended.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
06 - Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans if desired.
07 - Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
08 - Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
09 - Let bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before applying frosting.
10 - Beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
11 - Gradually mix in powdered sugar and brown sugar until fully incorporated and fluffy.
12 - Stir in vanilla extract.
13 - Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until frosting is smooth and spreadable.
14 - Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars, then cut into squares and serve.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Freezer-friendly
02 -
  • Ensure bars are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top of the frosted bars.
03 -
  • For a lighter version, substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
  • Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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