1-Let’s dive into making these delicious pumpkin bars! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lining a 10×15-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This step sets the stage for even baking and helps achieve the optimal texture.

2-Next, whisk together the dry mix in a large bowl: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice. This blend gives your bars that signature warm flavor. You can substitute pumpkin pie spice with a mix of ¾ teaspoon ground ginger, ¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon allspice if you don’t have it on hand.

3-In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: whisk 1 cup vegetable oil (or half oil and half applesauce), 3 large eggs, 1 cup packed brown sugar, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 can pumpkin puree, and 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this into the dry mix and stir until just combined the batter will be thick, and a few lumps are okay!

4-Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 28 35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean. Let the bars cool completely, then make the frosting by beating 8 ounces softened cream cheese and ¼ cup softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 3 cups confectioners’ sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and ⅛ teaspoon salt for a creamy finish.

5-Once baked, cool the bars in the pan before frosting to avoid a runny topping. For an internal link, check out our grilled pumpkin recipe for more fall inspiration. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and chill for 30 minutes before cutting into about 24 pieces.