Description

Moist and warmly spiced pumpkin bars topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup, these bars are perfect for cozy nights, holidays, or potlucks.

Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin purée

1/2 cup maple syrup or agave

1/3 cup coconut oil, melted

1/4 cup milk of choice

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose or spelt flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup butter, softened

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars and cut into squares to serve.

Notes

Use agave instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter.

Whole wheat pastry flour or gluten-free flour blends work well.

Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.

A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg over the frosting adds extra aroma.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg