Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are the ultimate fall treat! These bars are moist, lightly spiced, and perfect for sharing at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply craving something sweet, these pumpkin bars topped with cream cheese icing will surely delight everyone. Their rich flavor and tender texture make them a standout dessert that captures the essence of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making baking a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting flavor that you’ll crave all season.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a dessert, snack, or special treat for any occasion.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 20 bars in one batch, they’re great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Cream Cheese Icing: The rich and creamy icing adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure your baking process goes smoothly and your bars turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric mixer
• Large mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Toothpick (for testing doneness)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric mixer: Makes it easy to blend the ingredients until smooth without much effort.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time you bake.
• Baking dish: A quality non-stick dish helps achieve even cooking and easy removal of the pumpkin bars.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Bars

• 4 eggs, room temperature
• 1 2/3 cup sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 15 oz. can pumpkin
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. baking soda

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 8 oz. package cream cheese
• 1/2 cup butter, softened at room temperature
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

How to Make Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using an electric mixer, beat together:
1. Eggs
2. Sugar
3. Vegetable oil
4. Pumpkin
Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Cinnamon
Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture:
1. Mix at low speed until just combined.
2. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
2. Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out clean (may need an extra 5 minutes).

Step 7: Cool Before Frosting

Allow the bars to cool completely before moving on to frosting.

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Icing

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Butter
2. Cream cheese
Continue until smooth:
1. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating over medium speed until combined.
2. Stir in vanilla extract and mix on high for about one minute until creamy.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese icing over cooled pumpkin bars:
1. Cut into squares or rectangles.
2. Optionally pipe rosettes using a decorating bag with a piping tip for fancy presentation.

Enjoy Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars with friends and family — they won’t last long!

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Cream Cheese Icing

• Spread the delicious cream cheese icing over each bar for an extra layer of flavor that complements the pumpkin.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy finish that balances the richness of the bars.

Enjoy with Hot Beverages

• Serve alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. The spices in the bars pair wonderfully with the warmth of these drinks.

Add Nuts for Crunch

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before serving for added texture and a nutty flavor boost.

Create Mini Desserts

• Cut the bars into smaller squares and serve them on a platter as bite-sized treats at parties or gatherings.

Garnish with Cinnamon Dust

• Lightly dust the bars with cinnamon before serving for an aromatic touch that enhances their fall flavors.

How to Perfect Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

To make sure your pumpkin bars turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always use fresh pumpkin puree and eggs at room temperature to ensure optimal texture and flavor.
• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and powdered sugar helps avoid lumps and creates a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your bars light and fluffy, avoiding tough texture.
• Test doneness carefully: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean. If it’s sticky, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing the bars to cool prevents the icing from melting and maintains its creamy consistency.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to a week.

Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

While Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are delicious on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.
2. Apple Crisp: The sweetness and crunch of apple crisp provide a delightful contrast to the softness of pumpkin bars.
3. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea enhance the flavors in the pumpkin while offering a comforting beverage.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance sweetness, creating an interesting taste combination.
5. Pecan Pie Bites: Small bites of pecan pie add another layer of festive flavor that complements pumpkin nicely.
6. Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate is a wonderful drink choice that makes for a cozy pairing during chilly autumn days.
7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over pumpkin bars can provide extra sweetness and decadence.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your baking success. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Eggs: Using cold eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring your eggs to room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Not Sifting the Flour: Sifting flour helps eliminate lumps and aerates it, which is crucial for a light texture. Make sure to sift before measuring.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the bars dense and tough. Mix just until combined for a fluffy result.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Use a toothpick to check for doneness and avoid overbaking.
• Frosting Too Soon: Frosting warm bars can cause the icing to melt off. Allow your pumpkin bars to cool completely before spreading cream cheese icing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars that might help you out as you bake!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it is well-drained and cooked thoroughly.

How do I make Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

How long do Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars last?

These bars will stay fresh for up to five days in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins according to your taste. Whether you enjoy them as a cozy fall treat or share them at gatherings, they are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!