Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of pumpkin. Perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday desserts, they offer a delightful twist that’s easy to make and serve.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 graham cracker crust (9-inch)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Step 2: Add the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and spices to the cream cheese. Mix well until fully combined and smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in a baking pan.
4. Step 4: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly puffed. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
5. Step 5: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh pumpkin puree for a more vibrant flavor or canned pumpkin for convenience.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling for added depth.
• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added texture.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat slightly if desired, but they are best enjoyed chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust instead of graham cracker?

Yes, you can substitute with a cookie crust like gingersnap or digestive biscuits for a different flavor and texture.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are fully baked?

The edges should look set and slightly puffed, while the center will be mostly firm but may have a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 617 reviews

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are a delicious blend of creamy cheesecake and rich pumpkin flavor, perfect for fall desserts or holiday gatherings. Featuring a spiced pumpkin filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust, they are easy to make and sure to impress with their smooth texture and seasonal spices.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Graham Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
2. Form the crust: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
3. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Assemble and bake: Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but mostly firm.
5. Cool and chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake bars to fully set and develop flavor.
6. Slice and serve: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the foil or cut directly in the pan. Slice into bars and serve chilled. Optionally garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Notes

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps.
• Adjust spices according to your taste preference for a more or less spiced dessert.
• Store bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Keywords: Pumpkin cheesecake bars, pumpkin dessert, autumn dessert, holiday cheesecake, spiced pumpkin bars