Maple Bliss: Pumpkin Spice Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Maple Frosted Pumpkin Blondies
Maple Frosted Pumpkin Blondies are the essence of fall in a delightful bar cookie form, embodying the warm flavors of pumpkin spice and the sweet allure of maple. 🍁🎃 These bars, bursting with the goodness of pumpkin and topped with a luscious maple-infused frosting, are perfect for any autumn gathering or simply to indulge in cozy sweetness at home.
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 60 bars
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 1/4 cups | Flour |
| 2 1/2 tsp | Baking powder |
| 2 tsp | Cinnamon |
| 1/4 tsp | Salt |
| 1 1/2 cups | Light brown sugar |
| 3/4 cup | Butter |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla extract |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 1 cup | Pumpkin puree |
| 6 oz | Cream cheese |
| 2 tbsp | Butter |
| 2 cups | Powdered sugar |
| 1-2 tsp | Maple extract |
Instructions:
For the Batter:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15x10x1-inch jelly-roll pan with butter or cooking spray.
-
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl. Set this dry mixture aside.
-
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
-
Add the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition.
-
Mix in the pumpkin puree until well incorporated.
-
Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until well blended.
-
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared jelly-roll pan.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Cool the bars completely in the pan on a wire rack.
For the Frosting:
-
Meanwhile, prepare the delicious maple frosting. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar with an electric mixer on medium-low speed until smooth and creamy.
-
Add maple extract to the frosting, starting with 1 teaspoon. Taste and adjust, adding more for a stronger maple flavor if desired. Also, add a little more powdered sugar if you prefer a thicker frosting.
-
Once the bars have cooled completely, frost them generously with the maple cream cheese frosting.
-
Cut into bars, and serve these delightful Maple Frosted Pumpkin Blondies to your eagerly awaiting guests or family.
Tips for Success:
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing and a uniform batter.
-
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience and a consistent texture. Be sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
-
Maple Extract: Adjust the amount of maple extract to your taste preference. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more for a stronger maple flavor.
-
Frosting Consistency: If the frosting seems too thin, add more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, a splash of milk or cream can help achieve the desired consistency.
-
Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well—wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
These Maple Frosted Pumpkin Blondies are sure to become a fall favorite, offering a perfect balance of pumpkin goodness and maple sweetness in every bite. Enjoy them with a cup of hot cider or coffee for the ultimate autumn treat! 🍂✨
