The moment you sink your fork into a dreamy slice of pumpkin cheesecake bars, you’re greeted with creamy goodness that dances on your taste buds. These bars combine the best of both worlds: the spicy warmth of pumpkin pie and the rich decadence of cheesecake, all nestled in a buttery crust that practically sings autumn. Pumpkin Chocolate Cupcakes.
Picture this: a crisp fall day, leaves swirling in shades of gold and burgundy, and the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen. You take a bite, and it’s like being wrapped in a cozy blanket while sipping hot cider by the fire. Pumpkin Frosting Recipe Pumpkin Swirl Brownies Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Tuesday, these pumpkin cheesecake bars are sure to bring joy to any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These pumpkin cheesecake bars are easy to prepare and require minimal baking skills
- Their flavor profile strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, enticing everyone at the table
- The vibrant orange hue adds visual appeal, making them perfect for festive gatherings
- Enjoy them as an indulgent dessert or a delightful afternoon snack with coffee
Every time I make these delightful bars, my friends’ eyes light up like it’s Christmas morning when they take their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic choice for the base; look for finely crushed crumbs for even texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted for binding; using unsalted lets you control the saltiness in your dessert.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for that luxurious, smooth texture that makes every bite heavenly.
- Pumpkin Puree: Canned or homemade works; just ensure it’s pure pumpkin without added spices or sugars.
- Sugar: Both granulated sugar and brown sugar add sweetness; brown sugar introduces lovely caramel notes.
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind everything together; room temperature eggs mix more smoothly into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavors; it’s worth splurging on good quality for this recipe.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth and depth; adjust according to your taste preferences for cozy vibes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Create the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to mix until creamy and fluffy.
Add Pumpkin Goodness: Stir in pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. This mixture should look velvety and smell divine!
Pour Filling Over Crust: Carefully pour your luscious pumpkin filling over the graham cracker crust in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so every corner gets some love.
Bake to Perfection!: Place in preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges look set but still have a slight jiggle in the center.
After they cool down a bit (if you can resist), slice into squares and serve! Enjoy these creamy bites of heaven topped with whipped cream or just on their own—no judgment here!
These pumpkin cheesecake bars are not just dessert; they’re an experience that brings people together around sweet memories! For more inspiration, check out this No Bake Pumpkin Pie recipe.
You Must Know
- Pumpkin cheesecake bars are a delicious fall treat, combining creamy cheesecake with warm pumpkin spices
- The crust provides a delightful crunch, while the filling offers a smooth, rich flavor
- Perfect for gatherings or quiet nights at home with a cup of coffee
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust first; it needs time to cool before adding the cheesecake filling. While it cools, mix your pumpkin and cream cheese blend for optimal flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out regular cream cheese for flavored versions like cinnamon or maple for added depth. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store these bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter; this helps create that creamy texture we love
- Be cautious not to overmix, as it may lead to cracks
- Lastly, let bars cool completely before slicing; patience pays off!
After making these bars for family gatherings, I remember my cousin’s face lighting up after the first bite. It’s those moments that remind me why I love baking!
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pumpkin works well; just ensure it’s properly cooked and pureed.
How long should I No Bake Pumpkin Pie cheesecake bars?
Bake them for about 40-45 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Can I freeze leftovers of pumpkin cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to three months.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Pumpkin cheesecake bars are the ultimate fall dessert, blending the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm spices of pumpkin pie. Nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars evoke cozy autumn vibes and are perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to a simple afternoon treat. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar until creamy.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Pour filling over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly. Cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
