As the scent of warm spices wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel that inviting embrace of autumn. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, a delightful twist on the traditional cheesecake that will have everyone asking for seconds. Not only do these bars bring the cozy flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon to your table, but they also come together in just 20 minutes of prep time! Imagine satisfying your dessert cravings while keeping it easy, making these bars a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Plus, they’re a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing you more time to enjoy with friends and less time in the kitchen. So, who’s ready to indulge in this creamy dream come true?
Why are these Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars irresistible?
Decadent Flavor: The unique combination of creamy pumpkin, rich cream cheese, and aromatic spices creates a dessert that embodies autumn bliss.
Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can whip these bars up and get back to enjoying your day.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These bars serve 16, making them perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in.
Versatile Treat: Serve them chilled or at room temperature, and drizzle with caramel for an extra touch of indulgence.
Make Ahead Magic: Chilling overnight enhances the flavors, ensuring you have a dessert that tastes like it took all day!
Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these luscious treats that capture the essence of fall!
For the Crust
• Graham crackers – 15 whole rectangular ones deliver a perfect crunchy base.
• Granulated sugar – 50 grams adds sweetness to balance the richness.
• Unsalted butter – 113 grams, melted, helps bind the crust together nicely.
For the Filling
• Cream cheese – 334 grams, at room temperature, ensures a velvety smooth texture.
• Granulated sugar – 310 grams sweetens the creamy filling perfectly.
• Pumpkin pie spice – 1.5 teaspoons packs in the classic fall flavor.
• Ground cinnamon – 1.5 teaspoons enhances the warm and cozy notes.
• All-purpose flour – 3 grams adds stability to the filling.
• Vanilla extract – 1.5 teaspoons deepens the overall flavor of these creamy pumpkin cheesecake bars.
• Sour cream – 120 grams adds richness and tang to balance out the sweetness.
• Large eggs – 3 eggs help the filling set beautifully.
• Salt – 0.5 grams enhances all the flavors, making each bite memorable.
By gathering these ingredients, you'll be on your way to a dessert that will have everyone at the table swooning!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). While it warms, line a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking pan with aluminum foil, allowing some overhang to help with removal later. Lightly grease the foil with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking, creating a perfect base for your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a zip-lock bag, crush 15 whole rectangular graham crackers using a rolling pin until they form fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl, add 50 grams of granulated sugar, and pour in 113 grams of melted unsalted butter. Stir until well combined, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a solid crust.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 334 grams of room-temperature cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add 310 grams of granulated sugar while continuing to mix until fully integrated. You'll achieve a light, fluffy texture perfect for your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars.
Step 4: Incorporate Pumpkin and Spices
Next, fold in 120 grams of sour cream, 1.5 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, 1.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 3 grams of all-purpose flour, and 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla extract. After this, add 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing gently just until incorporated. Your filling should be smooth and fragrant, ready to delight.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Carefully pour the creamy pumpkin filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly and ensure it reaches all corners. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly when you remove it, indicating the bars will set perfectly as they cool.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
After baking, let your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial for texture and flavor development. Once cooled, cover the pan and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before slicing.
What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
As you prepare to indulge in these heavenly pumpkin delights, consider pairing them with complementary flavors and textures for a heartwarming meal experience.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider adds a cozy warmth that perfectly balances the creamy texture of the bars. Delightful aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the dessert, creating a festive atmosphere.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a lightness to each bite and enhances the creamy decadence of your cheesecake bars. It's a classic addition that your guests will love.
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Savory Sage Roasted Butternut Squash: The earthy notes of sage-roasted butternut squash introduce a savory element that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the bars. With its caramelized edges, it makes for a wonderful side dish.
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Cinnamon Roll Muffins: For a delightful brunch pairing, serve these cinnamon roll muffins alongside your cheesecake bars. Their fluffy, buttery goodness and cinnamon flavor create a comforting combination that feels like a warm hug.
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Pecan Pie Bars: If you can’t get enough of sweet treats, consider serving pecan pie bars for a dessert duo. The nutty, caramel notes complement the pumpkin beautifully, making every bite a wonderful mix of flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream next to your cheesecake bars adds a delightful chill and richness that enhances your dessert's lushness. It’s a classic pairing that takes this treat to new heights.
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Fresh Fall Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with apples, pears, and pomegranates offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars. The bright, tart fruits cleanse the palate and add a jubilant burst of flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are a fantastic make-ahead dessert that will save you time during busy weeks! You can prepare the crust by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to bake. The filling can be made separately and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, just pour the filling over the crust and bake as directed. For best results, ensure you chill the baked bars for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing; this enhances the flavor while ensuring they remain deliciously creamy. Enjoy the ease and convenience of these delightful bars while freeing up more time for your day!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Fridge: Keep your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will maintain their creamy texture and flavor while making them easy to access for late-night treats.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes for great make-ahead desserts!
Reheating: Thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving. If you prefer them warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
Room Temperature: For short-term enjoyment, they can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours, perfect for serving at gatherings!
Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling that blends beautifully into your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars.
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Crust Precision: Don’t rush pressing the graham cracker crust; it should be firm and evenly distributed. A well-packed crust ensures a perfect base that holds the creamy filling.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the eggs gently into the filling mixture, just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air, causing the bars to crack during baking.
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Cooling Time: Be patient and allow the bars to cool completely before chilling. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your creamy bars.
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Using Fresh Pumpkin: If possible, try using fresh pumpkin puree for richer flavor. Just ensure it's not too watery, which can affect the consistency.
Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars—after all, it's your kitchen and your palate that matter!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free crust alternatives, like almond or coconut flour, for everyone to enjoy.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream instead of sour cream for a dairy-free twist that still delights.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Top your bars with a rich chocolate ganache or drizzle melted chocolate to add a sweet contrast to the pumpkin.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed walnuts or pecans into the filling or sprinkle them on top before baking for an added crunch.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup for a more earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
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Pumpkin Pie Layer: Swirl in some pumpkin pie filling before baking for a pumpkin pie-cream cheese hybrid that’s truly decadent.
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Mix cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle it over the top of the bars before baking for a sweet, crispy finish.
With these variations, you can tailor your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars to every taste and occasion!
Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for a can of 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. If using fresh pumpkin, choose a small sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin. It should feel firm and have a smooth, unblemished skin. When cut open, it should be bright orange without dark spots or excessive moisture.
How do I store leftover Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars?
Very easy! To ensure your bars maintain their deliciousness, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you like, you can separate them into individual portions for quick access. Enjoy a slice anytime!
Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars for long-term enjoyment, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then wrap them in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my cheesecake bars crack while baking?
No need to worry! Cracking can occur if the filling is overmixed or baked at too high a temperature. To avoid this, ensure you mix the filling gently and keep an eye on the baking time. If cracking does happen, simply top the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving for a beautiful finish!
Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Absolutely worth considering! This recipe contains dairy and eggs, so if you're making these bars for someone with allergies, you can substitute with non-dairy cream cheese and egg replacements like flax eggs or applesauce. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham crackers instead of regular ones. Always check labels carefully if cooking for those with allergies!
Can I use different spices instead of pumpkin pie spice?
Definitely! If you’re out of pumpkin pie spice, feel free to use a combination of 1 teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon ground allspice for a similar flavor profile. The more the merrier when it comes to spice, so adjust according to your taste!
Indulgent Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking pan with aluminum foil and cooking spray.
- Crush 15 graham crackers, mix with 50 grams of sugar and 113 grams of melted butter, then press into the bottom of the pan.
- Beat 334 grams of cream cheese until creamy, then mix in 310 grams of sugar until fluffy.
- Fold in 120 grams of sour cream, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, flour, and vanilla extract. Add eggs one by one and mix gently.
- Pour the filling over the crust and bake for about 50 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours before slicing.
