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Today we baked one of our favorite fall treats — pumpkin squares topped with cream cheese frosting. Anything pumpkin is a highlight of the season, and these squares never disappoint. They’re simple to make, yield a generous batch, and somehow convert even folks who think they don’t love pumpkin into fans.
This recipe has been a staple for years (it came from a junior league cookbook) because it’s easy, dependable, and perfect for gatherings. We bring them to potlucks, school events, and family get-togethers — and then inevitably eat more than we should.
And yes, pumpkin has its benefits, so a few extra bites feel completely justified.
PUMPKIN SQUARE INGREDIENTS:
4 eggs
1 and 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 (16-ounce) can pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
FROSTING INGREDIENTS
2 (3-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 and 3/4 cups powdered sugar
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin until the mixture is light and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix until fully combined.
Spread the batter evenly into an ungreased 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan (a baking sheet with sides). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan.
CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the vanilla, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is creamy and spreadable. Once the pumpkin cake has cooled, frost the top and cut into squares.
This recipe makes about two dozen squares, depending on the size you cut. They store well covered at room temperature for a day or refrigerated for longer freshness. Bring them to your next autumn gathering or enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee.
Come on over and help me eat these!
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Catch up with the 6th annual Fall Nesting — 31 Days of Falling for Fall series!
It’s about more than pumpkins and scarecrows — there’s plenty of cozy inspiration for every corner of your home this season.
Today is Day Twenty Six of the series. Join fellow fall lovers and celebrate the season with simple projects, decorating ideas, and seasonal recipes.