Description
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
For the Brown Sugar Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the batter layer.
7. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar, spreading carefully to cover.
8. Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool completely.
10. For the frosting, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until smooth.
11. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
12. Spread the brown sugar frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars.
13. Cut into squares and serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Tips:
Use canned pumpkin puree for consistent moisture and flavor throughout the bars.
Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect pumpkin bars every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, whisk the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger). In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, and vanilla until perfectly smooth and emulsified. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet, folding gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Pour half the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture uniformly over this layer. Carefully pour and spread the remaining batter on top. Using a butter knife or skewer, make gentle figure-eight motions through the layers to create a beautiful marbled swirl. Bake on the center rack for 30-35 minutes. The bars are done when the edges pull away slightly and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
For the frosting, beat the softened butter and brown sugar for 3-4 minutes until creamy. On low speed, alternately add the powdered sugar and milk, starting and ending with sugar. Once incorporated, beat on high for 1-2 minutes until fluffy, then mix in the vanilla. Spread evenly over the cooled bars.
Serving Suggestions
These rich, spiced bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated for any occasion. For a festive touch, top each square with a candied pecan or a sprinkle of toasted pecans. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a dessert platter, serve alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine. Layer half the batter in a pan, add a cinnamon-sugar layer, top with remaining batter, and swirl. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Cool completely. Frost with a brown sugar buttercream made by creaming butter and brown sugar, then adding powdered sugar and milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure it is thick and has a similar consistency to canned puree. Homemade puree is often more watery, which can affect texture. Strain it well in a cheesecloth to remove excess moisture.
How should I store these bars, and how long do they last?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The frosting will firm up when chilled.
Can I freeze the pumpkin bars?
Absolutely. Freeze unfrosted bars tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and frost before serving. You can also freeze frosted bars; let the frosting set completely first.
What can I substitute for the vegetable oil?
An equal amount of melted coconut oil or a neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil works well. Applesauce can be used for a lower-fat option, but the texture will be denser.
My frosting is too runny/thick. How can I fix it?
If too runny, gradually beat in more powdered sugar. If too thick to spread, add milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, leading to tough, dense bars. Mix until just combined after adding dry ingredients.
- Frosting warm bars: The frosting will melt and become a messy glaze. Patience is key—wait until completely cool.
- Inaccurate measuring of flour: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Scooping directly packs the flour, resulting in dry bars.
- Overbaking: Check a few minutes before the timer. Overbaked bars lose their moist, tender crumb.
- Not creating a defined swirl layer: If you don’t sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly or swirl gently, you’ll lose the beautiful marbled effect.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are the ultimate fall treat, combining warm spices, moist pumpkin cake, and a decadent frosting. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’re guaranteed a stunning and delicious dessert perfect for sharing. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!