Thanksgiving Pumpkin Bars (Print Version)

Moist pumpkin bars with cinnamon spice topped with creamy vanilla cream cheese frosting, perfect for holiday gatherings.

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 4 large eggs, at room temperature
02 - 1-2/3 cups sugar
03 - 1 cup canola oil
04 - 1 can (425g) pumpkin puree
05 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
07 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
08 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
09 - 1 teaspoon salt

→ Cream Cheese Icing

10 - 170g cream cheese, softened
11 - 2 cups confectioners' sugar
12 - 1/4 cup butter, softened
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 - 1 to 2 tablespoons milk

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil and pumpkin until well blended. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
02 - Pour the batter into an ungreased 38x25x2.5cm (15x10x1-inch) baking pan. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until set and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
03 - In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, butter and vanilla until smooth. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the icing reaches spreading consistency.
04 - Spread the icing evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into 24 squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

# Notes:

01 - These bars develop even better flavor when made a day ahead and refrigerated overnight before serving.
02 - For best results, bring cream cheese and butter to room temperature before making the icing.