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Creamy Pumpkin Bars with Swirled Frosting

Soft and moist pumpkin bars topped with a rich cream cheese swirl, perfect for fall baking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pumpkin Batter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1.5 tsp cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp nutmeg
  • 0.25 tsp cloves optional
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 eggs large
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1.5 cups pumpkin puree
Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp cream

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking pan
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking pan.
  2. Whisk dry ingredients together in a bowl.
  3. Cream butter and sugars until fluffy.
  4. Add eggs and vanilla, then mix in pumpkin.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently.
  6. Prepare frosting by beating all ingredients until smooth.
  7. Spread batter, add frosting dollops, and swirl.
  8. Bake 30–35 minutes, cool, and slice.

Notes

For best flavor, chill slightly before serving for cleaner cuts.