Pumpkin Squares from Maureen Ambrico

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of fall with Maureen Ambrico's Pumpkin Squares, a dessert that perfectly balances warm spices and creamy decadence. These moist pumpkin bars are infused with the aromatic richness of cinnamon and nutmeg, enhanced by the natural sweetness of pumpkin puree. Topped with a luscious layer of homemade cream cheese frosting, they deliver a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, these pumpkin squares bake to perfection in under half an hour, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings, festive occasions, or a cozy weekend indulgence. With their blend of autumn-inspired spices and a velvety topping, these easy-to-make squares are sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite. Don’t forget to serve them chilled for an extra delightful texture!

Nutriscore Rating: 45/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Vegetable oil
• 15 ounces Pumpkin puree
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 4 large Eggs
• 8 ounces Cream cheese
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
• 2 cups Powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk to combine.

Step 3

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and eggs until smooth.

Step 4

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7

Remove the pumpkin squares from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 8

While the squares are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting.

Step 9

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.

Step 10

Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing, then stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 11

Once the pumpkin squares are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Step 12

Cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1939.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6510.3

Total Fat 368.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 113.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 141.0g
Cholesterol 1105.6mg	0%
Sodium 4406.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 779.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.5g	0%
Total Sugars 558.8g
Protein 69.1g	0%

Vitamin D 164IU	0%
Calcium 544.4mg	0%
Iron 21.3mg	0%
Potassium 1735.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.4%

Protein: 4.1%

Carbs: 46.4%