1. Prepare the Pumpkin Batter
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, coconut oil (or applesauce), plant-based milk, and vanilla extract.
3️⃣ In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4️⃣ Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined (don’t overmix!).
2. Bake the Pumpkin Bars
1️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
2️⃣ Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3️⃣ Let the bars cool completely before adding frosting.
3. Prepare the Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
1️⃣ In a bowl, beat vegan cream cheese, coconut cream (or vegan butter), maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
2️⃣ Spread evenly over cooled pumpkin bars.
🔥 For an extra touch: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, cinnamon, or a drizzle of maple syrup!
Serving & Storage Tips
📌 Serve: These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature.
📌 Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
📌 Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations & Add-Ins
🍫 Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars – Fold in ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips.
🥜 Nutty Pumpkin Bars – Add ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
🍌 Pumpkin-Banana Bars – Replace ¼ cup of pumpkin puree with mashed banana.
🧁 Pumpkin Muffins – Pour batter into muffin tins instead of a pan!
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Pumpkin Bars
✔ Super moist and soft 🎃
✔ Naturally sweetened & refined sugar-free 🍯
✔ Easy to make in one bowl 🥄
✔ Dairy-free, egg-free, and gluten-free adaptable ✅
✔ Perfect for fall cravings and holiday treats! 🍁
💡 Try these bars and enjoy a cozy, pumpkin-spiced treat! 🍂🎃🔥
📢 What’s your favorite way to enjoy pumpkin? Let me know in the comments! ⬇💬
