Pumpkin Bars
Looking for a cozy treat this fall? Pumpkin bars are the perfect dessert that combines the warm flavors of spices with the rich, creamy texture of pumpkin. These easy-to-make bars are great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home with a cup of coffee. With a decadent cream cheese frosting, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible pumpkin bars!
Ingredients
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz cream cheese (for frosting)
– 1/2 cup butter (for frosting)
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 16 pumpkin bars. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 pumpkin bar) contains approximately 240 calories, 10g fat, 35g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 2g fiber. This is based on the standard recipe without any frosting.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time until well incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
9. For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
10. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy, then spread over the cooled pumpkin bars.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute pumpkin puree with applesauce for a different flavor. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese in the frosting. Gluten-free flour can also be used in place of all-purpose flour.
Serving and Pairings
These pumpkin bars pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. They can also be served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable dessert.
Storage and Reheating
Store the pumpkin bars covered in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the batter; this can make the bars dense.
- Ensure your oven is preheated to avoid uneven baking.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the cooling step before frosting; it prevents melting.
- Measure your ingredients accurately for consistent results.
Helpful Tips
- For added texture, mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Enhance flavor by adding a pinch of cloves to the spice mix.
- Use a non-stick pan for easier removal of the bars.
- Let the bars sit for a few hours after frosting for better slicing.
FAQs
How can I make these pumpkin bars healthier?
You can reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute or less sugar. Additionally, using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour can add fiber and nutrients. Using unsweetened applesauce in place of oil can also lower the fat content.
Can I make pumpkin bars without eggs?
Yes! You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
What can I do if my pumpkin bars are too dry?
If your pumpkin bars turn out dry, try adding a bit more pumpkin puree or a splash of milk to the batter next time. Also, be cautious not to overbake, as this can lead to dryness.
Can I frost the pumpkin bars in advance?
Absolutely! You can frost the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are well-covered to maintain moisture.
What is the best way to cut pumpkin bars?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. It’s best to cut them after they have cooled completely to maintain their shape.
Conclusion
Pumpkin bars are a delightful treat perfect for any fall gathering. Their rich flavor and creamy frosting make them a standout dessert. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your baking adventure and savor every bite!
Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese for frosting
- 1/2 cup butter for frosting
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy, then spread over the cooled pumpkin bars.