Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These bars are moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these pumpkin bars will surely impress your guests. Easy to prepare and packed with warm spices, they showcase the best of fall flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious bars without much hassle.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or even a cozy family dessert night.
• Generous Servings: This recipe yields 16 servings, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, you can easily make this dessert anytime.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures the ingredients are mixed thoroughly and achieve a light fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Help keep your ingredients organized while mixing wet and dry components separately.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Using an electric mixer at medium speed:
* Combine the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
* Stir together the sifted flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture:
* Mix at low speed until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan:
* Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting them.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

In a medium bowl using an electric mixer:
* Combine softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
* Gradually add confectioner’s sugar and mix at low speed until incorporated.
* Stir in vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 8: Frost the Bars

Spread the frosting over cooled pumpkin bars:
* Cut into squares to serve. Enjoy your delicious Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars!

How to Serve Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars are a delightful dessert perfect for gatherings or family meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions that can enhance your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve warm bars topped with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Pair with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream alongside the bars creates a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the sweetness by drizzling caramel sauce over the frosted bars for added richness.

Add Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for a crunchy texture that complements the soft bars.

Serve with Coffee

• Enjoy these pumpkin bars with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai to balance the sweetness.

How to Perfect Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

To ensure your Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and high-quality pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture.
• Sift Your Flour: Sifting flour helps to aerate it, leading to lighter and fluffier bars.
• Do Not Overmix: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; overmixing can lead to dense bars.
• Cool Before Frosting: Ensure that the pumpkin bars are completely cool before applying frosting to prevent it from melting.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

When serving Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon make a warm and comforting side that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.
2. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the bars, making for a balanced plate.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted root vegetables adds earthy flavors that harmonize beautifully with dessert.
4. Salad Greens: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of pumpkin bars.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda that offer a creamy counterpart to the sweet dessert.
6. Hot Cider: A mug of warm spiced apple cider enhances the autumn vibe and complements the bars nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting. Frosting warm bars can cause it to melt and slide off.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. Incorrect measurements can alter the taste and texture of the bars.
• Overmixing Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the pumpkin bars dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened. Cold ingredients won’t blend well, resulting in a lumpy frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the original baking pan covered with plastic wrap if no container is available.

Freezing Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars that may help you while baking.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree in place of canned. Just ensure it’s well-pureed and measured accurately.

How can I customize Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch or chocolate chips for added sweetness!

What should I do if my frosting is too thin?

If your frosting is too thin, gradually add more confectioner’s sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Are Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or any festive event.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors with a moist texture. They are versatile enough to customize according to your preferences, making them a fantastic dessert option. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet taste of fall!