Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars. This recipe is a cherished favorite in our home, not just for its rich flavors but also for the way it brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, these pumpkin bars are the perfect dessert to share. The warm spices and creamy frosting create a comforting experience that feels like a big hug!

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious bars in no time. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these bars baking in no time!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves pumpkin bars! They are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake them a day in advance; they taste even better after sitting overnight.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon and pumpkin creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Be it holidays or just a regular afternoon treat—these bars fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to gather everything you need for Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars. You’ll find everything at your local grocery store!

For the Pumpkin Bars

• 4 eggs
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• (15 oz) can pumpkin
• 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

For the Frosting

• (8 oz) package softened cream cheese
• 1/2 cup softened (or margarine) butter
• 2 cups sifted confectioner’s sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize these pumpkin bars to suit your taste.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Try adding nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Make It Chocolatey: Swirl in melted chocolate or add chocolate chips for a tasty twist.
• Top with Cream Cheese Swirls: For an extra special touch, swirl some frosting into the batter before baking.

How to Make Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your bars bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to combine the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree. Mix until everything is light and fluffy. This helps incorporate air into the mixture, giving your bars a lovely texture.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed until smooth. This slow blending helps prevent lumps and creates that perfect batter consistency.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!

Step 6: Cool Completely

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This step is important because frosting warm bars can lead to melty frosting rather than a beautiful spread.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add confectioner’s sugar while mixing on low speed until well incorporated. Finally, stir in vanilla extract for that extra flavor boost!

Step 8: Frost the Bars

Once your pumpkin bars have cooled completely, spread the creamy frosting over them generously. Cut into squares and serve! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dessert with friends and family.

Now you’re all set to make Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Baking the perfect pumpkin bars is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of love! Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If possible, opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Fresh puree can enhance the flavor and texture of your bars, making them even more delightful.
• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, baking powder, and spices together helps to aerate the mixture, preventing clumps. This ensures an even distribution of ingredients, resulting in a lighter and fluffier bar.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bars, so a gentle hand is key!
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allowing the bars to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting. This way, you’ll achieve a beautiful finish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is classic, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor boost. These spices can elevate your pumpkin bars and give them a unique twist.

How to Serve Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Serving your pumpkin bars can be just as fun as baking them! Here are some delightful ideas to make your presentation pop.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the bars.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy touch that perfectly balances the sweetness of the frosting.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream makes for a delicious contrast against the warm pumpkin bars, enhancing their flavor with each bite.
• Spiced Chai Tea: Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy pairing that brings out the comforting flavors in your dessert.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits can lighten up your dessert spread and provide a burst of freshness alongside those rich pumpkin flavors.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your homemade Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars! Enjoy every moment in the kitchen; happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars are perfect for meal prep and can make your life a little easier during busy weeks. They stay delicious for several days, making them a great treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.
• Remember to keep the frosting separate if you prefer a firmer texture when storing.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the pumpkin bars into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the bars on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• If you’d like them slightly crispier, pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars that might help you out!

Can I use canned pumpkin for Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect for these bars and makes the recipe even easier. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin without any added spices.

How do I store leftovers of Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I freeze Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars?

Absolutely! Cut the bars into squares, wrap individually, and freeze. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

What should I serve with Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars?

These delicious bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars as much as I do! This recipe is not only simple but also brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or just indulging yourself, they are sure to delight your taste buds. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!