There’s nothing quite like coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of baked pumpkin bars wafting through the house. These delightful treats, with their perfectly spiced, creamy texture, are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face! If you’re in search of a simple, yet impressive dessert that the whole family will love, look no further than Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep time, you can whip up a delicious dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Fun fact: Pumpkin not only brings a rich flavor but is packed with nutrients, making these bars a guilt-free indulgence!
Unlike other desserts that seem to take all day in the kitchen, these pumpkin bars let you bake something extraordinary without the fuss. Just imagine serving these sweet, flavorful delights at your next gathering! And if you’re also a fan of my classic Southern Cornbread, you’ll find that these pumpkin bars have the same ease and homestyle appeal. So, let’s dive in and discover why these bars are a must-try in your baking repertoire!
What are Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars?
Wondering what these delicious bars are all about? Paula Deen’s Pumpkin Bars are a delightful cross between soft cake and chewy dessert bars, delivering a perfect combination of flavors and a satisfyingly rich texture. But why “bars”? Perhaps because they’re easy to slice up and serve – perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night at home! I like to think of them as the kind of treat that says, “Come join me for a slice!” After all, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’, right? So, if you want to impress friends and family, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create something special. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars Recipe
First off, the main highlight of Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars is undoubtedly their incredible flavor. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove and a generous amount of pumpkin puree, each bite brings you a taste of comfort. Making these bars at home is also a big winner in terms of cost; store-bought treats can be pricey, but with this recipe, you’ll enjoy homemade goodness for a fraction of the price!
Another delightful aspect of these bars is how versatile they are. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgent taste. If you loved my fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes, you’ll see that these pumpkin bars follow suit with the same warm spice and comforting flavors. It’s time to channel your inner baker and whip up some pumpkin bars that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!
How to Make Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
Quick Overview
The great thing about Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars is just how straightforward the process is. You’ll find the recipe involves simple steps that are both delicious and satisfying, crafted for bakers of all skill levels. From start to finish, the preparation takes approximately 15 minutes and baking time is around 25 to 30 minutes. So, in less than an hour, you can have a delightful dessert ready to impress!
Key Ingredients for Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches), or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves), and salt.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. If you’re using nuts, fold them in at this point.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and enjoy!
What to Serve Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars With
To elevate your dessert experience, consider pairing these pumpkin bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A steaming cup of spiced chai or a rich cup of coffee also complements the warm spices beautifully. For something a little different, serve them alongside cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of flavor. You can’t go wrong – every bite will be a treat on its own!
Top Tips for Perfecting Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
Once you’ve got the basic recipe down, consider these tips for taking your pumpkin bars to the next level. For an even richer taste, replace half of the vegetable oil with melted unsalted butter. Want a little crunch? Try adding in some chocolate chips or raisins for a fun twist. Additionally, be careful not to over-mix your batter; gentle folds will keep the bars light and airy.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftover pumpkin bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you’ve made a large batch, feel free to freeze cut bars in a single layer; once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they’ll keep well for about 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in a microwave for a few seconds for a deliciously warm treat.
With these tips and the delightful recipe at hand, you’re all set to make Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars that will make your taste buds dance with joy. So what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients, and let’s get baking!
Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and pumpkin puree. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves), and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. If you’re using nuts, fold them in at this point.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and enjoy!
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