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Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake with warm pumpkin pie spices in a delicious layered dessert perfect for fall. Easy to make, these bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth spiced pumpkin cheesecake filling, and a perfectly set finish after chilling. Ideal for fall gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights, they deliver comforting seasonal flavor with an impressive presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Cheesecake Layer

  • 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan to form a compact base.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to achieve a silky texture.
  3. Add Pumpkin and Spices: Gently fold in the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sour cream or Greek yogurt. Mix just until combined to keep the batter light and fluffy.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust and smooth the top evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
  5. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set fully before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother batter without lumps.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
  • Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor and warmth in the cheesecake.
  • Line your baking pan with parchment paper with overhang for easy removal.
  • Check doneness carefully; the center should remain slightly jiggly as it firms during chilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin cheesecake bars, pumpkin dessert, fall dessert, pumpkin spice dessert, cheesecake bars, easy cheesecake, autumn dessert