Description
Indulgent Paula Deen Pumpkin Bars blend autumn’s warmest spices with creamy pumpkin perfection. Cream cheese frosting crowns these irresistible treat squares that invite you to savor seasonal comfort in each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 1 ⅔ cups (400 ml) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 (15 ounces/425 grams) can pumpkin
- 2 cups (240 grams) sifted all-purpose flour
Spices and Leavening Agents:
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Frosting Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounces/225 grams) package softened cream cheese
- ½ cup (115 grams) softened butter
- 2 cups (240 grams) sifted confectioner’s sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by adjusting the temperature to 350°F (175°C), ensuring an even heating space for optimal baking results.
- Utilize an electric mixer to blend eggs, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and canned pumpkin puree until the mixture achieves a light, airy consistency with a uniform texture.
- In a separate mixing vessel, carefully whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and baking soda until the dry ingredients are thoroughly integrated.
- Gently incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the pumpkin blend, using low-speed mixing to create a smooth, homogeneous batter without overmixing.
- Transfer the prepared batter into a thoroughly greased 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeter) rectangular baking pan, ensuring an even distribution across the surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, monitoring the progress by inserting a clean toothpick into the center – it should emerge without any raw batter clinging to it.
- Remove from the oven and allow the pumpkin bars to cool completely within the baking pan, maintaining their structural integrity and preventing premature cutting.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by combining softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a medium mixing bowl, using an electric mixer to create a smooth, lump-free base.
- Gradually introduce confectioner’s sugar to the cream cheese mixture, blending at low speed to prevent sugar clouds and ensure a consistent texture.
- Fold in pure vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the frosting.
- Once the pumpkin bars have reached room temperature, generously spread the prepared cream cheese frosting across the entire surface using a spatula.
- Allow the frosted bars to set for a few minutes, then carefully slice into square portions using a sharp knife for serving.
Notes
- Achieve Silky Smoothness: Warm ingredients like eggs, cream cheese, and butter to room temperature for effortless blending and dreamy texture.
- Prevent Lumpy Disasters: Sifting flour, baking powder, and powdered sugar ensures a light, airy base with perfectly smooth frosting.
- Master Gentle Mixing: Combine dry and wet ingredients minimally to keep the bars tender and avoid dense, tough results.
- Patience Pays Off: Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and maintain a pristine, professional look.
- Slice Like a Pro: Refrigerate frosted bars briefly to set the topping and create clean, picture-perfect cuts every time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 327
- Sugar: 29 g
- Sodium: 209.6 mg
- Fat: 18.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40.2 g
- Fiber: 0.9 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 53.7 mg