As I whisk together the eggs and sugar, a sense of comfort envelops me—fall is unmistakably in the air. There’s something magical about baking, especially when it comes to creating Paula Deen’s easy pumpkin bars. This classic dessert combines the warmth of pumpkin spices with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making it the perfect treat for chilly gatherings or cozy nights in. Not only does this recipe transform a simple can of pumpkin into something extraordinary, but it also boasts a quick prep time of just over an hour, yielding 16 generous servings that are ideal for sharing. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or satisfy your own sweet cravings, these bars are an effortlessly delightful option. Curious about how to make this fall favorite? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars irresistible?
Irresistible, Comforting Flavor: The warm, spiced pumpkin blends beautifully with the rich cream cheese frosting for a taste that screams autumn.
Simple and Quick: With easy-to-follow steps, these bars come together in just over an hour—perfect for those busy fall days.
Generous Yield: This recipe makes 16 hearty servings, making it a fantastic option for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in with friends.
Versatile Options: Looking to customize? Feel free to add nuts or swap the frosting for a simple glaze for a fresh twist.
Nutritional Boost: Besides being delicious, these bars are packed with vitamins from pumpkin, making them a treat that’s a little less guilty! Want more fall inspiration? Check out my other amazing fall dessert recipes.
Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars Ingredients
• Get ready to bake up a seasonal favorite with these must-have ingredients!
For the Batter
- Eggs – Provide structure and moisture, making your bars perfectly tender.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetness; can be substituted with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture; swap it out for melted coconut oil for a subtle twist.
- Pumpkin Puree (15 oz) – Adds flavor and moisture; ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups, sifted) – Gives the bars structure; feel free to use gluten-free flour as a substitute.
- Baking Powder (2 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bars to rise perfectly.
- Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp) – Infuses warm spice into each bite; add nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor; kosher salt works well as an alternative.
- Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for optimum results.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Forms a rich base for frosting, adding an irresistible creaminess.
- Butter (1/2 cup, softened or margarine) – Enriches flavor and creaminess; margarine is a suitable alternative.
- Confectioner’s Sugar (2 cups, sifted) – Sweetens the frosting; you can reduce the amount for a less sweet version.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor; for a twist, try almond extract instead.
Enjoy creating these delicious Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars that are perfect for any fall occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure the bars release easily after baking. Set the prepared pan aside as you gather the additional ingredients for Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 eggs with 2 cups of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until it becomes thick and light in color, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually drizzle in 1 cup of vegetable oil and add 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree, mixing until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Ensure that the dry ingredients are fully mixed to avoid any clumps. This blend will add structure and spice to your Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the dry mixture to the bowl of wet ingredients, carefully folding them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined and avoid overmixing; the batter should be somewhat lumpy but cohesive. This prevents your pumpkin bars from becoming dense and ensures a lovely texture.
Step 5: Pour and Spread the Batter
Once thoroughly mixed, pour the batter into the greased baking pan. Use a spatula to gently spread the batter evenly across the pan, ensuring it reaches all corners. This step is crucial for baking evenly, giving you perfectly baked Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars with that delightful soft crumb.
Step 6: Bake the Pumpkin Bars
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened butter until smooth and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add in 2 cups of sifted confectioner’s sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Step 8: Frost the Pumpkin Bars
Once the pumpkin bars are completely cool, spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. Be generous with the frosting to add that delightful richness that complements the spices in the bars, making Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars even more irresistible.
Step 9: Cut and Serve
With the frosting set, it’s time to slice your pumpkin bars into squares. Use a sharp knife to cut even pieces for serving. These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature, making them an ideal treat to share during fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Make Ahead Options
These Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars are ideal for those busy days when meal prep is essential! You can prepare the pumpkin batter up to 24 hours in advance—just cover it tightly and refrigerate to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the greased pan and proceed as usual. Additionally, the cream cheese frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cooled bars and slice them up for a delightful, time-saving treat that tastes like fall in every bite!
Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars Variations
Get ready to make these delightful bars even more unique and flavorful with some fun twists!
- Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delicious crunch that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese frosting with a coconut cream topping for a dairy-free option that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-sensitive friendly treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Spice it Up: Mix in 1 teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice for a spicier flavor profile that will warm your soul.
- Chocolate Boost: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a rich, sweet twist that’s bound to become a family favorite.
- Maple Drizzle: Swap out the cream cheese frosting for a simple maple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup for a seasonal flair.
- Pumpkin Swirl: Reserve some of the batter before adding spices, swirl in a bit of caramel sauce before baking for a surprise burst of flavor.
- Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for those who love a spicy kick in their sweet treats.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your own perfect rendition of Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars! And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, don’t miss out on my scrumptious fall dessert recipes.
How to Store and Freeze Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
Fridge: Store your pumpkin bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay fresh and moist.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the frosted pumpkin bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove the bars from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: For a warm treat, heat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to enhance that soft texture!
Expert Tips for Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
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Eggs Beating: Beat the eggs until they reach a pale yellow color to ensure a light and airy texture for your pumpkin bars.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the light, soft treats you desire.
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Cooling Matters: Allow your pumpkin bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese mixture from melting and sliding off.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baking soda and powder for the best rise, ensuring your Paula Deen pumpkin bars come out light and fluffy.
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Taste Test for Spice: Feel free to adjust the spices—adding a pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor, making these bars even more delightful.
What to Serve with Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
The aroma of fall fills the air, inviting you to create a cozy spread alongside these delicious pumpkin bars.
- Spiced Tea: This warm, fragrant drink highlights the flavors in the bars, making for a comforting pairing perfect for chilly days.
- Pecan Pie: The nutty sweetness of pecan pie complements the spices in the pumpkin bars beautifully—a true celebration of autumn flavors.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich pumpkin flavor and frosting, enhancing each bite.
- Chocolate Chai Latte: The creamy chocolate mixed with chai spices elevates the cozy vibe, making it an indulgent beverage to enjoy with your bars.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For an unexpected savory element at gatherings, serve these alongside a luscious mashed potato dish, offering a delightful textural contrast.
- Apple Crisp: Another iconic fall dessert, its warm and fruity flavor perfectly balances the spiced pumpkin bars, creating a seasonal dessert platter guests will adore.
Elevate your fall gatherings with these delightful pairings, turning a simple dessert into a memorable feast for the senses!
Paula Deen’s Easy Pumpkin Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, which is typically found in a can at the store. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that will affect the final flavor of your Paula Deen pumpkin bars.
How should I store Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars?
To keep your pumpkin bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 1 week. Just remember to place a layer of parchment paper between the layers of bars if stacking to avoid sticking!
Can I freeze Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars?
Very much! You can freeze the bars for longer storage. Wrap the frosted bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What if my pumpkin bars are too dense?
If you find your pumpkin bars are dense, it could be due to overmixing. It’s crucial to combine the wet and dry ingredients just until no flour streaks remain. If you’ve beaten the eggs well but they still came out dense, double-check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness, as stale leavening agents can prevent proper rising.
Are these pumpkin bars safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
When it comes to sharing with pets, it’s best to keep the pumpkin bars away from dogs and cats because of the cream cheese and sugar. For allergen considerations, ensure that your guests do not have allergies to eggs or gluten. You can use gluten-free flour to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, and there are dairy-free cream cheese options available for those who are dairy intolerant.
Cozy Up with Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars: A Fall Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together 4 eggs and 2 cups of granulated sugar until thick and light in color.
- Gradually drizzle in 1 cup of vegetable oil and add 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, 2 tsp of ground cinnamon, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of baking soda.
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding together until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened butter until smooth.
- Gradually add 2 cups of sifted confectioner’s sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled pumpkin bars.
- Cut the pumpkin bars into squares and serve.
