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Moist Pumpkin Bars: Best Easy Homemade Recipe

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These moist pumpkin bars feature a spiced cake base topped with a rich, nutty brown butter cream cheese frosting. A nostalgic, foolproof dessert perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 2–3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes).
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and pumpkin puree. Mix until just combined.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  6. Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  8. While bars cool, melt 1/2 cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until amber and nutty (5-7 minutes). Pour into a heatproof bowl to cool slightly.
  9. In a clean bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add cooled brown butter and vanilla, beat until combined.
  10. Gradually add powdered sugar and salt, beating on low until incorporated, then increase speed to beat until fluffy.
  11. Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for best emulsification. Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to avoid tough bars. Brown butter is crucial for flavor; watch closely to prevent burning. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and chilled bars.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin bars, brown butter frosting, fall dessert, pumpkin recipe, cream cheese frosting, easy baking, holiday dessert

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/moist-pumpkin-bars-best-easy-homemade-recipe/