Spiced Pumkin Bars

This recipe is the perfect fall treat and is one of Joshua's all time favorites.

Spiced Pumkin Bars
Prep: 15 min. Bake: 25-30 min. Oven: 350 degrees Makes: 24

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
4 eggs
1 15 oz can pumpkin
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup cooking oil
3/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 recipe cream cheese frosting
Pecan halves (optional)

1) In medium bowl stir together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

2) In a large mixing bowl beat together eggs, pumpkin, sugar, and oil with an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the flour mixture; beat until well combined. If desired, stir in chopped pecans. Spread batter into an ungreased 15X10X1 inch baking pan.

3) Bake in a 350 degrees oven for 25-30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. Frost with Cream Cheese Frosting. If desired, top with additional pecan halves. Cut into squares. Store in the refrigerator.

Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium mixing bowl beat together one 3 oz. package of cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup butter, softened; and 1 tsp vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth.