Imagine biting into a slice of creamy Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars, where the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices dance on your palate. soft pumpkin cookies The buttery crust crumbles just right, creating a delightful texture that’s as comforting as a hug on a chilly autumn day. pumpkin cream cheese bread. For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies recipe.
These cheesecake bars aren’t just desserts; they’re memories waiting to happen. Picture this: your friends gathered around the table, their faces lighting up with joy as they take their first bite. These bars are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy nights in when you want to impress your family without spending all day in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You will appreciate how easy these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are to prepare, making them a quick favorite for any occasion
- Their delectable flavor profile combines sweet pumpkin with fragrant spices, creating an irresistible treat
- Visually, these bars are a feast for the eyes, boasting creamy layers atop a golden crust
- They’re versatile enough to serve as dessert or even paired with coffee for breakfast!
I remember the first time I made these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars; my friends devoured them in minutes and begged for the recipe. decadent sheet cake
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a smooth texture; they form the perfect base for your cheesecake bars.
- Unsalted Butter: Melt it before mixing; it helps bind the crust together beautifully.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; you can adjust it based on your preference.
- Pumpkin Puree: Make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling, for authentic flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth and creamy texture; let it sit at room temperature before mixing.
- Eggs: Use large eggs; they help set the cheesecake mix perfectly while adding richness.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract brings all the flavors together beautifully.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: This magical blend of spices is essential for that cozy fall flavor; don’t skip it!
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors wonderfully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Create the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar while mixing to incorporate air into your mixture. It should be light and airy.
Add Pumpkin Goodness: Mix in pumpkin puree along with eggs one at a time until fully combined. Add vanilla extract and pumpkin pie spice; this is where the magic happens!
Pour and Bake: Spread the creamy filling evenly over your baked crust using a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center—like me after too many dessert tastings!
Cool and Slice: Allow your bars to cool at room temperature for about an hour before refrigerating them for at least 2 hours. Once chilled, lift them out using parchment overhang and slice into squares.
Now that you have made these delightful Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars, get ready to enjoy every last crumb! Whether you share them or keep them all to yourself (we won’t tell), they’re sure to be a hit every time you make them! For more inspiration, check out this Magic Pecan Cheesecake Bars recipe.
You Must Know
- These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat for autumn lovers
- The creamy texture and warm spices create a cozy experience that’s perfect for any gathering
- Just wait until you smell them baking—your kitchen will become the happiest place in the neighborhood!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust while your oven preheats. Bake it until golden, then whip up the cheesecake filling. This sequence ensures everything comes together seamlessly and tastes divine!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pumpkin for mashed sweet potato or add chocolate chips for a twist! Experimenting makes each batch uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth batter; cold cream cheese creates lumps
- Don’t overmix after adding eggs, as this can cause cracks
- Let bars cool completely before slicing for cleaner edges
Sharing these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars at a family gathering earned me countless compliments! My cousin even declared it her new favorite dessert, which made my day.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s pureed smoothly and well-cooked first.
How long do these bars last?
These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to five days.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! Freeze them wrapped tightly for up to two months.
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fall dessert, combining creamy pumpkin filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for Thanksgiving or cozy evenings, bringing warmth and joy to any gathering. With a delightful blend of seasonal spices and rich flavors, they promise to be a hit among family and friends. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cheesecake bars will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar until combined. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add remaining sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in pumpkin puree and eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt; combine well.
- Pour filling over the crust and bake for 25–30 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool at room temperature for an hour, then refrigerate for at least two hours before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (62g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
