Welcome the cozy vibes of fall with these Pumpkin Delight Cake Bars. A soft, delicious blend of pumpkin and spice meets the nutty richness of brown butter frosting, making it a perfect treat for the season.
Introduction
As the leaves change color and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing better than filling your home with the warm, comforting aroma of autumnal baking. These Pumpkin Delight Cake Bars with Brown Butter Frosting encapsulate all the flavors of fall — they are moist, spiced, and topped with a rich, nutty frosting that elevates this simple treat to something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to bring to a gathering or a cozy snack for a chilly evening, these cake bars are sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients
For the Cake Bars:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
– 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2-3 tablespoons milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Yield: 24 bars
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Stir in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
6. For the frosting: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until it turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma, about 5-6 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
7. In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Beat until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if necessary to reach your desired consistency.
8. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
– Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice based on your personal preference.
– For extra texture, you can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
– Store the cake bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several days.
Cook Techniques-FAQ
What is brown butter?
Brown butter, or beurre noisette, is unsalted butter that is melted and cooked until the milk solids turn a toasty brown color. It has a deep, nutty flavor that adds complexity to recipes.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
What can I use if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
You can make your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
How can I tell if my cake bars are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Delight Cake Bars with Brown Butter Frosting are an irresistible treat perfect for the fall season. The moist, spiced cake paired with the rich, nutty frosting makes them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot cider or a slice of pie, these bars are bound to become a favorite autumn recipe.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combination
For more autumn-inspired recipes, consider trying:
– Apple Cinnamon Muffins
– Maple Pecan Scones
– Spiced Caramel Apple Cobbler
– Ginger Molasses Cookies
– Chai-Spiced Shortbread Cookies
These recipes will fill your kitchen with the delightful scents of fall and provide a cozy treat for every occasion.
