Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are the perfect treat for fall gatherings, bake sales, or simply enjoying at home with friends and family. These bars are not only moist and lightly spiced but also topped with a rich cream cheese icing that takes them to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or craving something sweet, these pumpkin bars will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting flavor that embodies the essence of fall.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these pumpkin bars plain, or enhance them with the luscious cream cheese icing for an indulgent treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, these pumpkin bars fit right in.
• Great for Sharing: With 20 servings, you can easily share these delightful bars with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Sifter
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and ensure your batter is well-mixed to achieve that perfect texture.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for evenly baking your pumpkin bars without overcrowding the pan.
• Sifter: Sifting flour and powdered sugar helps eliminate lumps and ensures a light, airy texture in your bars.

Ingredients

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are the best ever! Moist and lightly spiced, this recipe is a must for your fall baking list! Top these easy pumpkin bars with a delicious cream cheese icing and enjoy with a tall glass of milk or cup of tea!

For the 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 Your 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 with a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture:
1. Mix at low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter into your prepared baking dish:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
2. Test the center using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they are done. If not, they may need an extra 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cool Before Frosting

Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting them.

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Icing

To prepare the icing:
1. In a bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add in powdered sugar while beating over medium speed until combined.
3. Mix in vanilla extract on high speed until creamy and spreadable.

Step 9: Frost Your Pumpkin Bars

Spread the cream cheese icing over cooled pumpkin bars:
1. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired.
2. Optionally pipe rosettes on top using a decorating bag fitted with a 1M Wilton piping tip.

These delicious Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars will be sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pairing these pumpkin bars with a warm cup of herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere. Consider flavors like chai or cinnamon to complement the spices in the bars.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Adding a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top of the pumpkin bars adds creaminess and extra sweetness. It’s perfect for those who love contrasting temperatures.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the frosted pumpkin bars takes them to another level. The rich flavor pairs beautifully with the cream cheese icing.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the pumpkin bars on a decorative platter alongside other fall treats like pecan pie or apple cider donuts for an inviting dessert spread at your gatherings.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cream cheese icing gives added crunch and enhances the flavor profile. Toasted nuts work especially well!

How to Perfect Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

To achieve the best results when making Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars, consider these helpful tips that will ensure moist and flavorful treats every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps ingredients combine more smoothly, leading to a better texture in your bars.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until everything is combined to avoid dense bars.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached for perfectly baked bars.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing your pumpkin bars to cool before frosting helps prevent the icing from melting off and keeps it beautifully intact.

Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm cup of spiced apple cider adds a fruity note that balances beautifully with the pumpkin bars’ spices.

2. Pecan Pie Bites
   These small bites pack all the flavors of traditional pecan pie, adding variety without overwhelming sweetness.

3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   While not typical, creamy mashed potatoes can provide an interesting contrast when served alongside dessert for an unexpected twist.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness complements the pumpkin perfectly, making them an excellent savory side dish option.

5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar or creamy brie, provides a savory counterpoint to the sweet pumpkin bars.

6. Apple Crisp
   This warm dessert is similar in flavor profile but offers different textures, making it perfect for sharing alongside your pumpkin bars.

7. Mini Pumpkin Muffins
   For true pumpkin lovers, mini muffins echo the flavors of your main dessert while being easy to grab and enjoy!

8. Maple Glazed Carrots
   Their slight sweetness and vibrant color make them a lovely addition to any fall-themed table setting alongside your delicious pumpkin bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold eggs – Cold eggs can prevent the batter from mixing well. Always use room temperature eggs for a smoother texture.
• Skipping the sifting – Not sifting flour can lead to dense bars. Sift your flour to ensure light and fluffy pumpkin bars.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can create tough bars. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not checking doneness – Relying solely on baking time may yield undercooked or overcooked bars. Use a toothpick to test if they are done in the center.
• Frosting warm bars – Frosting warm pumpkin bars can lead to melted icing. Allow them to cool completely before adding frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat the bars for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual pieces for about 20-30 seconds or until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Place a bar in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars that might help you enjoy this recipe even more.

How can 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. This will help maintain the texture while making it gluten-free.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars?

Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or chocolate chips enhances flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before spreading it into the baking dish.

What is the best way to serve Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars?

Serve these delicious bars chilled or at room temperature, topped with cream cheese icing, and pair them with coffee or tea for an extra treat.

How long do Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars last?

When stored properly, these pumpkin bars last up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer without losing their delightful taste.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are incredibly moist and flavorful, making them perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family nights. Their versatility allows you to customize each batch with various mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe; you won’t be disappointed!