Spicy Orange Pumpkin Bars

It is fall, and a good time for pumpkin and spice treats. Here is a new one I am trying. They smelled absolutely delicious coming from the oven, but I waited until they were cooled and frosted to try them. I will feature the frosting recipe tomorrow. These squares are quite moist and spicy, with a nice balance of orange and pumpkin flavors.

Spicy Orange Pumpkin Bars

2 cups all-purpose (plain) flour

1 1/2 cups granulated (white) sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

2 teaspoons finely grated orange zest

1/2 cup oil

1/2 cup orange juice

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

2 large eggs

Preheat oven to 350◦F. Line or grease and flour a 15x10 inch jelly roll pan.

Using an electric mixer, beat all ingredients together on low speed for 30 seconds, then on medium speed for two minutes. Pour into prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool and frost with Browned Butter Frosting.