Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are the ultimate fall treat! With their moist texture and delightful spices, these bars are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. The addition of a creamy icing elevates them even further, making them a real crowd-pleaser. Whether served with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk, these pumpkin bars are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, so you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of pumpkin and oil ensures that each bar is irresistibly moist without being too heavy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain or topped with cream cheese icing for an extra special treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These bars are ideal for potlucks, holidays, or just as an everyday dessert.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of cinnamon and pumpkin makes these bars a seasonal favorite that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Electric Mixer: Makes mixing the batter easy and ensures everything is well combined.
• Sifter: Helps incorporate air into the flour, resulting in lighter bars.
• Baking Dish: A sturdy 9×13-inch dish is essential for even baking and easy slicing.

Ingredients

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) to ensure it’s ready when you put your bars in.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter, then set it aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand 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 together until well mixed.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in your stand mixer:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined; do not 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 check doneness; if necessary, bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cool Before Icing

Allow the bars to cool completely before adding frosting.

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Icing

In a clean mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on medium speed until combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix on high speed until creamy.

Step 9: Frosting the Bars

Spread the cream cheese icing over cooled pumpkin bars:
1. Cut into squares; you can also pipe rosettes using a decorating bag if desired.

These delicious Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are now ready to serve! Enjoy them at home or share them with friends and family for an unforgettable treat!

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them as a simple dessert or dressed up for a special occasion, these bars are versatile and delicious.

With Cream Cheese Icing

• This is the classic way to serve Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars. The creamy, tangy icing complements the moist pumpkin perfectly.

Warm with Whipped Cream

• Serve the bars warm from the oven topped with freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that enhances the flavors of the pumpkin.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The spices in the pumpkin bars pair wonderfully with both beverages.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cream cheese icing. This adds texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the softness of the bars.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Slice and serve these pumpkin bars for breakfast. They make for a sweet morning pick-me-up alongside yogurt or fruit.

How to Perfect Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

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

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bring your eggs and butter to room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your bars light and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if they’re cooked through. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!
• Cool before frosting: Allow your bars to cool completely before adding icing to prevent it from melting.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days for freshness.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust cinnamon levels or add nutmeg for a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars can be complemented by several delightful side dishes that enhance their flavors and create a complete meal experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm pumpkin bars, offering a rich contrast.
2. Apple Cider: Serve chilled apple cider as a refreshing drink that highlights autumn flavors alongside your dessert.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars for an extra sweet touch that adds depth to each bite.
4. Candied Pecans: These crunchy treats provide texture and sweetness that balance out the softness of pumpkin bars.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers freshness and balances the richness of the dessert.
6. Hot Chocolate: Pairing with hot chocolate creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for fall gatherings.
7. Chai Latte: A spiced chai latte complements the flavors in pumpkin bars, making it an ideal beverage choice.
8. Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to provide savory contrast against the sweet dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your bars come out perfect every time.

• Using Cold Eggs: Cold eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Always use eggs at room temperature for a smoother mix.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Overpacking flour can lead to dense bars. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure accurately.
• Skipping the Toothpick Test: Underbaking can result in gooey centers. Always test with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
• Frosting Too Soon: Frosting warm bars can cause the icing to melt. Make sure the bars are completely cool before applying the cream cheese frosting.
• Ignoring Spice Levels: Adjust spices according to your preference. Taste testing is key for achieving that perfect flavor balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap individually or in slices with plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag to maintain freshness.

Reheating Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars that you might find helpful.

Can I substitute pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned. Just ensure it’s thick enough.

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

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

What flavors pair well with Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars?

Spices like nutmeg and ginger complement pumpkin beautifully. You can experiment with these in your recipe!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or chocolate chips can be added for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their moist texture and spiced flavor make them irresistible, while the cream cheese icing adds a wonderful touch. Feel free to customize these bars by adding nuts or adjusting spices to suit your taste!