Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars Recipe

If you are searching for a pumpkin dessert that delivers cozy fall flavors and a luscious, creamy frosting, look no further than these incredible Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars. This recipe combines the perfect balance of warm spices, moist pumpkin cake, and rich cream cheese topping to create bars that feel like a celebratory hug with every bite. Easy to make and wonderfully flavorful, Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars are the kind of treat you want to keep in your baking repertoire all season long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars plays an important role in building layers of taste and texture. From the smooth pumpkin that keeps the bars moist to the blend of spices that adds warmth, these simple components come together beautifully.

• 4 eggs: Bind the ingredients and add a slight richness to the batter.
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars without overpowering the pumpkin’s natural flavor.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bars moist and tender without making them greasy.
• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin: The star ingredient that brings vibrant color and a perfect pumpkin flavor.
• 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour: Provides the structure necessary for soft yet firm bars.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bars rise gently for a light texture.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note quintessential to pumpkin desserts.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors overall.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic pumpkin to give a tender crumb.
• 1 (8 oz) package softened cream cheese: Creates the luscious frosting that complements the pumpkin base.
• 1/2 cup softened butter or margarine: Adds creaminess and richness to the frosting.
• 2 cups sifted confectioner’s sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting with a sweet, floral aroma.

How to Make Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating the oven ensures that your pumpkin bars bake evenly right from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Using an electric mixer on medium speed, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air into the batter, making your bars delightfully tender.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Mixing these dry elements ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, blending on low speed until everything is well combined and smooth. Overmixing can make the bars tough, so just mix until incorporated.

Step 5: Bake the Pumpkin Bars

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time locks in moisture while setting the bar’s structure.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow the pumpkin bars to cool fully in the pan before frosting. Patience here is important to avoid melting the beautiful cream cheese frosting later on.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer until smooth. Slowly add the sifted confectioner’s sugar and continue mixing on low until well incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for that final touch of flavor.

Step 8: Frost the Bars

Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars. For neat presentation, cut into squares once the frosting has firmed slightly. Now you’re ready to indulge!

How to Serve Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars

Garnishes

Enhance the look and flavor of your Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars by sprinkling a light dusting of cinnamon or a few chopped pecans on top of the frosting. These little touches add just the right amount of crunch and extra warmth.

Side Dishes

Serve these pumpkin bars alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea or creamy coffee for a comforting fall pairing. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also makes for an indulgent treat that elevates the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try cutting the bars into pumpkins or leaf shapes using cookie cutters. You could even arrange them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by autumn leaves for a charming seasonal display that will wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps to maintain the freshness of the cream cheese frosting while keeping the bars moist and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the bars, either frosted or unfrosted, by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your bars a little warm, gently reheat them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds per piece. Just be careful not to melt the frosting too much — warmed just enough to bring out those comforting pumpkin spices.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned in Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but be sure to cook and mash it thoroughly before measuring. The flavor will be fresher, but the texture close to canned pumpkin works best for consistent results.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Your bars will still be moist and delicious with that signature pumpkin spice flavor.

Can I use margarine instead of butter in the frosting?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter to make the frosting. It will still give you a creamy texture, though butter provides a richer flavor if you have it on hand.

How thick should the pumpkin bars be before baking?

Spreading the batter evenly in a 9×13-inch pan ensures the bars bake to about one to one and a half inches thick, which is perfect for maintaining moistness and structural integrity.

What is the best way to cut the bars neatly?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried before slicing. This helps slide through the frosting and cake without tearing, resulting in clean, beautiful squares.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars are a wonderful blend of moist pumpkin cake and dreamy cream cheese frosting that will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or just because, these bars bring warmth and sweetness every time. Don’t wait to try this incredible recipe — it’s truly comfort food perfection that you’ll want to share with everyone you know.

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