Paula Deen Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
The Paula Deen Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is one of the best fall desserts you can make at home. These bars are soft, creamy and packed with warm pumpkin spice flavor.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Layer
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 ounces
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish
- Powdered sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving much easier later.
Make the Pumpkin Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, cake mix, egg, melted butter and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until a thick batter forms with no dry spots remaining.
Spread the Pumpkin Layer
- Transfer the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Make sure the layer reaches all corners.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. This creates a creamy filling without lumps and helps achieve the best texture.
Add the Remaining Ingredients
- Add eggs, powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until smooth, creamy, and fully combined. The mixture should look silky and light.
Pour Over the Pumpkin Layer
- Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin base. Spread gently with a spatula until the top looks smooth and even.
Create a Decorative Swirl
- Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese layer into the pumpkin layer. This step creates a beautiful marbled appearance after baking.
Bake the Bars
- Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. The center should be mostly set but slightly soft.
Cool Completely
- Remove the bars from the oven and place the dish on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for cleaner pieces.
Slice and Serve
- Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon if desired. Serve and enjoy these creamy pumpkin treats.
Notes
- Use room-temperature cream cheese.
- Do not overbake the bars.
- Chill before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Add chopped pecans for crunch.
- Use homemade pumpkin puree if desired.
- Sprinkle cinnamon on top.
- Add white chocolate chips.
- Store chilled for the best texture.
- Line the baking dish with parchment paper.
- Use pumpkin spice blend for extra flavor.