As autumn leaves start to paint the landscape in hues of orange and brown, what could be more fitting than a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that encapsulates the essence of fall? Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of the season. This simple recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in the flavors of fall.
Table of contents
Pumpkin Bars Recipe
Ingredients That Make the Magic
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of flavors. Let’s start with the pumpkin bars. You’ll need:
- 4 eggs for richness
- 1 2/3 cups of sugar to sweeten
- 1 cup of vegetable oil for a moist texture
- 1 ¾ cups of pumpkin puree, the star of the dish
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla for a hint of warmth
- 2 cups all-purpose flour as the base
- Spices: 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon each of ground nutmeg and ginger for that quintessential autumn aroma
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of baking soda for the perfect rise
For the creamy topping, you’ll prepare a cream cheese mixture:
- 16 oz. softened cream cheese for smoothness
- 1 ½ tablespoons corn starch for consistency
- 1/3 cup sugar for sweetness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla for flavor
- 2 slightly beaten eggs to bind
Simple Steps to Deliciousness
Creating these pumpkin bars is a breeze. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 F. Prep a 10 x 15 x 1-inch jelly roll pan with a spritz of non-stick spray, line it with parchment paper, and give the paper a spray too.
- Mix your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices) in a bowl and set aside.
- Beat the eggs and sugar in a large bowl. Stir in the oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mix well, and pour into the prepared pan. Smooth the top for an even layer.
- For the cream cheese mixture, blend the cream cheese, sugar, corn starch, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in the eggs.
- Transfer this mixture to a piping bag (or a zip-lock bag with a corner cut off) and create diagonal lines over the pumpkin mix.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese are perfect as they are, but you can always add a personal touch. Serve them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Whether it’s a family gathering, a casual get-together, or just a treat for yourself, these pumpkin bars are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy the taste of fall in every bite!
Pumpkin Bars Recipe FAQS
How Many Calories are in a Pumpkin Bar with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat, especially during the fall season. If you’re counting calories, it’s important to know what you’re consuming. Generally, a single pumpkin bar with cream cheese frosting contains approximately 200 to 300 calories. This estimate can vary depending on the recipe’s ingredients and the size of the bar. For a more accurate count, consider homemade recipes where you can control the ingredients and portion sizes.
How Long Does Cream Cheese Frosting Keep?
Cream cheese frosting, a popular choice for cakes and pastries, is known for its rich and creamy texture. When it comes to storage, cream cheese frosting can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, always check for signs of spoilage, like a sour smell or discoloration, before using.
Can Cream Cheese Frosting Sit Out Overnight?
Leaving cream cheese frosting out overnight is not recommended. Since cream cheese is a dairy product, it’s susceptible to bacterial growth at room temperature. Ideally, desserts with cream cheese frosting should be kept refrigerated and only left out for a short period, not exceeding two hours, especially in warm conditions.
Is Cream Cheese Icing Shelf Stable?
Cream cheese icing is not shelf-stable due to its dairy content. It requires refrigeration to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. While there are shelf-stable frosting options available in stores, these typically contain preservatives and don’t offer the same fresh taste and texture as homemade cream cheese frosting.