Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of rich, creamy cheesecake and warm, spiced pumpkin flavors, all layered on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars offer the cozy taste of fall in every bite, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, holiday parties, or a quiet evening treat.

With their smooth texture and balanced sweetness, these bars are not only delicious but also easy to slice and serve. Get ready to enjoy a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful!

Layers of Flavor in Every Bite

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars combine three delicious elements: a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth pumpkin cheesecake filling, and a hint of warm spices. The result? A dessert that’s both elegant and comforting, perfect for any occasion.

Let’s dive into the recipe and create a treat that will impress family and friends alike.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars:

1. Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth, lump-free filling.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
3. Use Parchment Paper: Leave an overhang to make lifting the bars out of the pan easier.
4. Chill Before Slicing: Let the bars cool completely in the fridge for clean, neat slices.
5. Don’t Overbake: The center should still have a slight jiggle when removed from the oven.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
• Chilling time: 3 hours
• Servings: 12-16 bars
• Equipment: 9×13 inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, hand or stand mixer

These bars are a perfect make-ahead dessert, offering all the cozy flavors of fall in a creamy and indulgent bite.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
3. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
5. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to fully set.
6. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Time to Indulge!

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fall dessert, combining creamy pumpkin goodness with a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a personal treat, they’re guaranteed to impress. Serve chilled, and savor every creamy, spiced bite!

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