Are you ready to indulge in a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and pumpkin? Look no further than this cream cheese frosting recipe for pumpkin bars! These bars are a perfect blend of moist, spiced pumpkin cake topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion.
Introducing this mouthwatering recipe, we will guide you through every step to create a delectable homemade version of this classic fall favorite. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a fall-themed party, or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are sure to impress everyone.
Let’s dive into the details of this creamy, dreamy recipe and get started on your baking adventure!
Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar, sifted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions for the Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition until the mixture is well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, and continue to mix until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a desired tip, or simply spread it on top of the cooled pumpkin bars using a spatula.
Ingredients for the Pumpkin Bars:
– 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
– 1 cup (240ml) pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions for the Pumpkin Bars:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, frost the pumpkin bars with the cream cheese frosting and let them set for a few hours before cutting and serving.
Now that you have all the ingredients and instructions, it’s time to get baking! These cream cheese frosting pumpkin bars are a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Share them with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself – either way, you’ll be sure to have a memorable dessert experience. Happy baking!