Delicious and Easy Pumpkin Bar with Cream Cheese Icing

Indulge in the rich flavors of autumn with this homemade pumpkin bar recipe topped with creamy and tangy cream cheese icing. These moist and spiced pumpkin bars are a perfect treat for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home. The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and the smooth cream cheese icing will leave your taste buds craving for more. This recipe takes only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a hassle-free dessert option. Elevate your fall baking with these delectable pumpkin bars!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese icing by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together in a mixing bowl until smooth.
7. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl while continuing to beat until the icing is creamy and well combined.
8. Once the pumpkin bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top.
9. Cut into squares and serve.
10. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Interesting Facts