Description of this recipe
These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Imagine a moist, subtly spiced pumpkin cake topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting – that’s exactly what you’ll get. This recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying a cozy day at home. The combination of warm spices, the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, and the tangy frosting creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for seconds. These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and those new to the world of baking. The recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, ensuring a delightful baking experience from start to finish.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll absolutely fall in love with these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars for several reasons. First and foremost, the taste is simply divine. The pumpkin flavor is prominent yet balanced, enhanced by the cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg that create a warm, inviting aroma and taste. The cream cheese frosting adds a layer of tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin base.
Secondly, the texture is spot-on. These bars are incredibly moist, thanks to the pumpkin puree and vegetable oil in the batter. They are soft and tender, melting in your mouth with each bite. Unlike some baked goods that can be dry or crumbly, these pumpkin bars maintain their perfect texture even after a few days, making them great for making ahead of time.
Thirdly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or mix in raisins or chocolate chips for added flavor. The frosting can also be adjusted to your liking by adding a bit more vanilla extract or a hint of lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
Finally, the ease of preparation makes this recipe a winner. It requires minimal effort and uses common pantry staples. You don’t need any special equipment or advanced baking skills to create these delectable bars. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner baker, or simply someone who appreciates a quick and easy dessert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The simplicity and incredible taste make these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars a must-try recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup raisins (optional)
Frosting:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it well. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, which will make it easier to lift the baked bars out of the pan later. This ensures that the bars don’t stick and are easy to remove once cooled.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are evenly distributed throughout the flour, resulting in a consistent rise in the oven. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the wet ingredients: eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which contributes to the light and airy texture of the final product. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk for best results. Beating the mixture until it is light and fluffy also helps to dissolve the sugar properly, which prevents a grainy texture in the baked bars.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough bars. Mix until the flour disappears into the wet ingredients, leaving no streaks.
Step 5: If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and raisins. Gently fold them into the batter using a spatula. Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep the nuts and raisins evenly distributed without deflating the batter.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This ensures that the bars bake uniformly.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Step 8: Allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting. Cooling the bars completely prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a clean, even spread.
Step 9: To make the frosting, in a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. The cream cheese and butter should be at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free frosting.
Step 10: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until creamy. Add the powdered sugar in increments to prevent it from puffing up and making a mess.
Step 11: Stir in the vanilla extract. This enhances the flavor of the frosting and adds a touch of sweetness.
Step 12: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. Use an offset spatula or a knife to create a smooth, even layer of frosting.
Step 13: Cut into squares and serve. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For neat cuts, you can wipe the knife clean between each slice.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars are perfect on their own as a simple dessert or snack. They also pair well with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts
- A cup of hot coffee or tea
Tips:
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the frosting to be smooth.
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure the bars are tender and moist.
- Add chocolate chips or other spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor.
- Store the frosted bars in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
Calories:
Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein:
Approximately 4-5 grams per serving
Sodium:
Approximately 200-250 mg per serving
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Pumpkin Bars are a classic fall treat that is sure to delight your taste buds. With their moist texture, warm spices, and tangy cream cheese frosting, they are the perfect dessert for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe makes it simple to create these delicious bars at home, bringing the flavors of autumn to your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply treating yourself, these pumpkin bars are a delightful choice that will leave everyone craving more. Enjoy the comforting taste and aroma of these homemade bars, and savor the simple pleasure of a perfect fall dessert.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser and nuttier flavor. However, keep in mind that whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so you may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of vegetable oil or pumpkin puree to maintain the desired moistness. Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends can also be used, but be sure to follow the package instructions, as some blends may require additional binding agents like xanthan gum.
Q2: What can I use if I don’t have vegetable oil?
A: If you don’t have vegetable oil on hand, you can use other neutral-flavored oils like canola oil or sunflower oil. Melted coconut oil or unsalted butter can also be used, but they will impart a slight flavor to the bars. Another alternative is applesauce, which will add extra moisture and a hint of sweetness while reducing the fat content.
Q3: How do I prevent the cream cheese frosting from being too runny?
A: To prevent the cream cheese frosting from being too runny, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Softened but not melted butter and cream cheese will blend together smoothly without becoming overly liquid. Also, gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing the frosting to thin out. If the frosting is still too runny, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to allow it to firm up before spreading it on the bars.
Q4: Can I freeze these pumpkin bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these pumpkin bars for up to 2-3 months. It’s best to freeze them unfrosted, as the frosting may become soggy or change texture when thawed. Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to serve, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight and then frost them. If you want to freeze frosted bars, freeze them individually on a baking sheet until solid, then wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag.
Q5: Can I add other spices to enhance the flavor?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor of these pumpkin bars. A pinch of ground nutmeg, ginger, cloves, or allspice can add depth and complexity to the spice profile. Pumpkin pie spice, which is a blend of these spices, is also a great option. Start with about ½ teaspoon of each additional spice and adjust to your preference. These additions will create a warmer, more aromatic experience, enhancing the overall taste of the pumpkin bars.
