Pumpkin Bars
Also good with just a bit of lemon extract in the frosting
Also good with just a bit of lemon extract in the frosting
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- liquid splenda equivalent to 1 2/3 cups sugar
- 2 cups carbalose flour
- 15 ounces canned pumpkin
- 8 ounces cream cheese -room temperature
- 4 tablespoons butter -room temperature
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free syrup i use french vanilla
- liquid splenda equivalent to 1 1/3 cups sugar
- Carbohydrate 23.6931898142338 g
- Cholesterol 230.074625 mg
- Fat 19.4146912485357 g
- Fiber 0.756972147975538 g
- Protein 7.27185831558675 g
- Saturated Fat 5.83917702780782 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (118g)
- Sodium 237.407463003356 mg
- Sugar 22.9362176662583 g
- Trans Fat 1.67193705671504 g
- Calories 286 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 325F.
- Grease (or spray with non-stick cooking spray) a 13 X 9" pan; set aside.
- Beat until light and uniform in color: eggs, oil and liquid Splenda equivalent to 1 2/3 cups sugar.
- Add the flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt and soda.
- Blend together and then add pumpkin. Beat thoroughly. (Batter will be stiff.)
- Spread into prepared pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven; cool completely.
- Meanwhile, combine butter, cream cheese, syrup and liquid Splenda equivalent to 1 1/3 cups sugar in a medium bowl.
- Beat until light and fluffy.
- Spread over cooled cake.
- Cut into squares to serve.
My Go-To Pumpkin Bars: A Recipe for Any Occasion
As a busy working mom, time is a precious commodity. I need recipes that are both delicious and easy to execute, something that doesn't demand hours in the kitchen but still delivers impressive results. These pumpkin bars fit the bill perfectly. They're incredibly moist, perfectly spiced, and the cream cheese frosting adds a touch of decadence that elevates them beyond a simple dessert. This recipe has become a staple in my household, a go-to for everything from casual weeknight gatherings to holiday celebrations. It's incredibly versatile; I've even been known to whip up a batch for potlucks, always a crowd-pleaser.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the process is straightforward. Even on my busiest days, I can find the time to make them. The rich, warm flavors of pumpkin and the creamy sweetness of the frosting create a harmonious blend that's utterly irresistible. The bars are also remarkably easy to transport, making them an ideal choice for potlucks or bringing a treat to a friend's house. I often double the recipe when I know I'll be sharing them, and they are always a welcome addition to any occasion.
Beyond the Recipe:
I’ve found that using good quality pumpkin puree makes a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of the bars. Don't skimp on the spices! The pumpkin pie spice blend adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. If you want to experiment, a little bit of cinnamon, ginger or nutmeg can be added for a twist. Feel free to play around with the frosting; I sometimes add a little lemon extract for a brighter, zestier flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Baking is my therapy, a way for me to unwind after a long day. It allows me to focus my energy on something creative and rewarding. The sweet scent of pumpkin spice baking in the oven is enough to make any day a little brighter. And watching people enjoy these bars, seeing the smiles on their faces, is the ultimate reward. They are always a hit, a sweet and comforting treat that embodies the essence of home.
Serving Suggestions:
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them further. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. You can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They're also a perfect complement to a cup of coffee or tea. However you choose to serve them, I am sure you'll love these simple yet delightful Pumpkin Bars. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
