Pumpkin Cake Mix Bars in 45 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and no dry streaks remain, then spread evenly into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the edges are slightly golden and the center springs back gently.
5. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
6. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until velvety.
7. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, whipping until the frosting is light and fluffy.
8. Spread the frosting in a thick, even layer over the cooled pumpkin bars, creating decorative swirls with an offset spatula.