–by Jen Ruple
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov 13, 2018

It was a much-anticipated yearly tradition at my former workplace when coworker Marilyn Muranyi, often referred to as “mom” around the office would bring her fabulous pumpkin bars. The giant sheet pan of mouthwatering seasonal treats, topped with sweet cream cheese frosting, was usually wiped out within an hour.

From Marilyn’s kitchen to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
 
Marilyn’s Pumpkin Bars
 
Bars:
2 cups sugar
½ cup oil
½ cup applesauce
4 eggs
2 cups canned pumpkin
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
 
Frosting:
3 ounces cream cheese
6 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
 
Heat oven to 350 F.
In a large bowl, mix all bar ingredients together.
Pour into a 10″ x 15″ greased pan with sides. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Allow to cool.
Combine frosting ingredients. Spread over cooled pumpkin bars.