Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: A Decadent Fall Dessert

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie, all on a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re the perfect treat to celebrate the flavors of fall, offering a delicious twist on classic cheesecake that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just craving something sweet, these bars are an irresistible dessert option.

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Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s everything you need to make these luscious Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars:

• For the Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 1/2 cups of finely crushed graham crackers provide a classic base with a sweet, buttery crunch.
  • Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup of sugar adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
  • Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup of melted butter gives the crust its rich, buttery flavor and helps hold it together.
• For the Cheesecake Layer:
  • Cream Cheese: 16 oz of softened cream cheese creates a smooth, creamy foundation for the cheesecake layer.
  • Granulated Sugar: 1 cup of sugar sweetens the cheesecake mixture.
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • Eggs: 2 large eggs provide structure and richness to the cheesecake.
  • Sour Cream: 1/4 cup of sour cream adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
• For the Pumpkin Layer:
  • Pumpkin Purée: 1 cup of pumpkin purée brings the warm, earthy flavor of pumpkin to the mix.
  • Brown Sugar: 1/3 cup of packed brown sugar adds a deeper sweetness and molasses-like richness.
  • Spices: A blend of 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon salt creates that quintessential pumpkin pie spice flavor.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out after baking.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
   • Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan, forming an even layer.
   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool while you work on the fillings.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, mix in the sour cream until everything is well combined.
4. Prepare the Pumpkin Layer:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the spices are evenly distributed.
   • Add half of the prepared cheesecake mixture to the pumpkin mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour the remaining plain cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.
   • Gently spoon the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the plain cheesecake layer and spread it evenly across the top.
6. Bake:
   • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
   • Once done, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully chilled.
7. Serve:
   • After chilling, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
   • Cut into squares and serve. These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are perfect on their own, or you can add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The creamy cheesecake layer beautifully complements the spiced pumpkin layer, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Textural Contrast: The crunchy graham cracker crust adds the perfect amount of texture to the smooth, creamy filling.
• Easy to Serve: These bars are easy to cut and serve, making them a convenient dessert for gatherings or parties.
• Make-Ahead Dessert: You can make these bars ahead of time, which is perfect for busy holiday seasons or when you want to prepare dessert in advance.

Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This will help you achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
• Let the Bars Chill Completely: For the best texture and flavor, make sure to let the bars chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly.
• Cut Cleanly: For neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

Variations

• Add a Streusel Topping: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider adding a streusel topping before baking.
• Drizzle with Caramel: For an indulgent touch, drizzle the finished bars with caramel sauce before serving.
• Ginger Snap Crust: For a spicier twist, swap out the graham cracker crust for a ginger snap crust.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat to embrace the flavors of fall. With their creamy, spiced layers and buttery crust, they’re sure to become a favorite at any autumn gathering or holiday celebration. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors in every bite!