Frosted Pumpkin Cranberry Bars

Frosted Pumpkin Cranberry Bars are a delightful fall-inspired treat that combines the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with the tartness of cranberries, all topped with a creamy, sweet frosting. They are the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors, making them an irresistible addition to your fall baking repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Bars:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or fresh cranberries if preferred)

For the Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dried cranberries.
4. Bake the bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
5. Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and enough milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.
6. Frost the bars: Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares or bars.
7. Serve: Enjoy these Frosted Pumpkin Cranberry Bars as a delicious fall treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.