These pumpkin cheesecake bars are the perfect fall treat, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices. They’re easy to make and great for parties or holiday gatherings. Let’s get started on this delightful dessert!
Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Pecan pieces
How to Make Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Making the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Making the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, sour cream, vanilla extract, and spices until well combined and smooth.
Assembling and Baking:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to firm up.
Serving:
- Cut the chilled cheesecake into bars and serve them plain or with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and pecan pieces on top, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree adds a rich, creamy texture and a warm, earthy flavor to these cheesecake bars. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to your dessert.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese provides the smooth, creamy texture that is characteristic of cheesecake. It adds a tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Spices
The combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves gives these bars their classic pumpkin spice flavor. These spices not only add warmth and depth to the dessert but also complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Enjoy Your Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars!
These pumpkin cheesecake bars are a delicious fall dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall celebration. Enjoy!
