As the leaves begin to change and the air becomes crisp, it’s the perfect time to indulge in all things pumpkin. These pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that you’ll want to make again and again. They’re easy to make and are perfect for any fall gathering or as a sweet snack with your afternoon coffee.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the white sugar, brown sugar, oil, and eggs until well combined.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting contains:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 220mg
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for these pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting is approximately 35-40 minutes, including prep time.
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Medium bowl
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Serving Suggestions
These pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet snack with your afternoon coffee.
Variations
You can customize these pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins to the batter. You can also experiment with different spices or add a pinch of ginger or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Substitutions
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can substitute it with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash. You can also use applesauce instead of oil for a healthier option.
Storage
These pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Tips
- Make sure to allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them to prevent them from falling apart.
- For a more intense pumpkin flavor, you can use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned.
- If you don’t have a 9×13 inch baking pan, you can use an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch pan instead, but you may need to adjust the baking time.
Notes
These pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting are a great alternative to traditional pumpkin pie and are perfect for those who aren’t fans of cream cheese frosting. They’re easy to make and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin instead of canned. Simply peel and dice the pumpkin, roast it in the oven until tender, then puree it in a food processor or blender until smooth.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use any type of oil that you prefer, such as canola oil or coconut oil.
Can I add cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can add cream cheese frosting if you prefer. Simply mix together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, then spread it over the cooled bars.
These pumpkin bars without cream cheese frosting are the perfect fall treat that are easy to make and are sure to impress. With their delicious pumpkin flavor and warm spices, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply want a sweet snack, these pumpkin bars are sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not give them a try and see for yourself how delicious they are?