Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp (8g) ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp (2g) ground ginger
- ½ tsp (1g) ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp (3g) salt
- 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
- 1 cup (235ml) vegetable oil
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) pure pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp (30ml) heavy cream
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your 10x15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper for a clean release.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and baking soda until no clumps remain.
- Add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract directly into the dry ingredients.
- Using a spatula, fold the mixture together just until combined; avoid over-mixing to maintain a dense texture.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla on low speed, then whip on high until fluffy.
- If needed, mix in heavy cream for desired consistency, then spread the frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars.