Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! These pumpkin bars, crafted with the help of a yellow cake mix, are the perfect blend of easy homemade cooking and delicious fall flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner dessert solution without compromising on taste. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or simply satisfying your own sweet tooth. Get ready to experience the magic of effortlessly creating a stunning, moist, and spiced pumpkin treat!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your pumpkin bars release easily once baked.
Mixing the Batter: Simple Steps to Success
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Mix until just combined; don't overmix! Overmixing can result in tough bars.
Baking the Pumpkin Delight
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last 5 minutes, as ovens can vary.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
- While the bars are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
Assembling the Masterpiece
- Once the pumpkin bars have cooled completely, frost them with the cream cheese frosting. Allow the frosting to set for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving. This ensures a clean cut and prevents the frosting from sliding off.
Tips & Variations for the Best Pumpkin Bars
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
- Chocolate Chunk Surprise: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful twist.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free alternative for a delicious gluten-free treat. Ensure you're using a cake mix specifically designed for gluten-free baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients. Expect a moderately high calorie count due to the cake mix and frosting, but remember to enjoy in moderation!
These easy pumpkin bars are a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be simple to make. They're a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while keeping things relatively straightforward. Enjoy this delectable treat, and happy baking!