Print

Creamy Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Bars

Creamy Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Bars - featured image

A dense, rich, and easy-to-make fall dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with the texture of cheesecake in a convenient bar form.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 15 oz pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
  • Additional spice, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease lightly.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Place in the fridge while making the filling.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides.
  5. Add 1 cup sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to the cream cheese. Beat on low speed until combined.
  6. Add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
  7. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Stop as soon as blended. The batter should be smooth and pale orange.
  8. Pour filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 45-50 minutes. Edges should be set, but the center should have a slight jiggle.
  10. Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let bars sit in the oven for 1 hour to cool gradually.
  11. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
  12. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps. Do not overmix after adding eggs to prevent cracking. Cool gradually in the turned-off oven to prevent thermal shock. For clean slices, chill overnight and use a hot, dry knife.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin pie cheesecake bars, fall dessert, easy pumpkin recipe, cream cheese bars, autumn baking, holiday dessert