Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you love pumpkin and cheesecake, combining the two into Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars is a match made in heaven. These delicious dessert bars offer a creamy, spiced pumpkin layer sitting on top of a buttery graham cracker crust, with the indulgent tanginess of cheesecake balancing it all out. Whether you're making these for a family gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Read on to learn everything you need to know about creating the perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, including ingredient lists, variations, and step-by-step instructions.

Keep reading to discover how to make this irresistible treat that will leave your guests asking for more!

this Recipe

What Are Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars?

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert combining the flavors of a creamy cheesecake with the warmth and spices of pumpkin pie. Imagine a rich graham cracker crust as the base, followed by a smooth layer of spiced pumpkin cheesecake filling, all baked to perfection and chilled for the ultimate autumnal dessert. These bars are cut into square servings, making them easy to serve at parties, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. They offer all the delicious flavors of pumpkin pie and cheesecake in a single, easy-to-eat treat.

Ingredients List for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full crackers)
• ¼ cup of granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, melted

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon of salt

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to tweak the recipe or accommodate dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions and variations you can try:

• Crust: Swap the graham crackers for gingersnap cookies to add more spice and depth to the base. You can also use a gluten-free graham cracker substitute for a gluten-free version.
• Cream Cheese: Use a low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter option, though the bars may be slightly less creamy.
• Pumpkin Spice Mix: If you don’t have individual spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, you can use 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice instead.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew-based cream cheese or tofu-based cream cheese, to make these bars vegan.
• Sweetener: Swap out the granulated sugar for coconut sugar, honey, or a sugar alternative like Stevia to suit different dietary preferences.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add in the sugar and beat again until well combined. Next, add the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, flour, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to remove any air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 5: Cool and Chill
Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set.

How to Cook Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F and line your baking pan with parchment paper. This will make removing the bars much easier.
2. Make the Crust: Blend together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Press firmly into your lined pan and bake for 10 minutes to form a solid base.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then blend in the sugar and pumpkin puree. Add in spices, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Lastly, incorporate the eggs one at a time.
4. Bake the Bars: Spread the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust and bake until set. Let it cool on the counter before chilling in the fridge.
5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars for several hours to ensure they are firm enough to cut. Then, slice into squares and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the filling too much after adding the eggs can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake. Mix just until combined.
• Not Cooling Properly: Don’t rush the cooling process. Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating them, and ensure they chill for at least 4 hours before cutting.
• Using Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of the cheesecake bars.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Skipping the parchment paper lining can make it difficult to remove the bars from the pan without breaking them.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are an eye-catching dessert, especially when topped with a little extra flair. Here’s how you can elevate their presentation:

1. Toppings: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can even sprinkle some extra cinnamon or crushed graham crackers on top for added texture and flavor.
2. Cutting the Bars: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut clean, sharp slices. Wipe the knife between each cut to ensure clean edges.
3. Garnishing: Garnish each bar with a small pumpkin-shaped candy, cinnamon stick, or even a sprinkling of powdered sugar.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

These bars are perfect for any fall gathering or special occasion. Serve them as a dessert after dinner, or bring them along to a party or potluck. The individual portions make them ideal for sharing, and they’re easy to transport. For an extra festive touch, pair them with a warm spiced latte or a glass of apple cider.

Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

• Autumnal Platter: Serve the bars on a wooden or rustic-style platter adorned with small pumpkins, pinecones, or autumn leaves to match the fall theme.
• Elegant Display: Place each bar in a cupcake liner or on a dessert stand to create a more sophisticated presentation, perfect for a dinner party.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
• Chill Time: The longer the bars chill in the fridge, the firmer and easier they will be to slice. Don’t skip this step!
• Spices: Adjust the level of spices to your preference. If you love extra cinnamon or nutmeg, feel free to increase the amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Once they have cooled and chilled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to drain any excess liquid from the homemade puree to avoid a runny filling.

Q: How long will these bars last in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, these bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just substitute the graham crackers with a gluten-free alternative.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced pumpkin pie, making them the ultimate fall dessert. Whether you're serving them at a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and endless options for variations, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a batch of these mouth-watering Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars!

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