Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

Why Make This Recipe

Let’s face it: pumpkin spice season is the best season. And what better way to celebrate than with Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars? 🎃 These bars combine the creamy goodness of cheesecake with that warm, cozy pumpkin spice vibe we all crave. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just treating yourself, these bars will have everyone coming back for more.

Seriously, these cheesecake bars are super easy to whip up and will make your kitchen smell like a fall wonderland. Plus, they’re a great way to use that can of pumpkin puree you forgot was hiding in the pantry. 👍

How To Make Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

Making these delicious bars is pretty straightforward. Just follow these steps and you’ll have a dessert that looks impressive but doesn’t require a culinary degree.

1. Start with gathering your ingredients. Having everything prepped will save you time and headaches down the line.
2. Preheat your oven while you prep. This ensures your bars bake evenly.
3. Mix and press your crust ingredients, then whip up the filling. Easy peasy!

Pro tip: Don’t skip the chilling step! Letting the bars cool in the fridge will set everything and allow those flavors to meld perfectly.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. No lumps allowed!
4. Add pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes until set. You’ll know it’s done when the edges look firm but the middle is a bit jiggle-y.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully chilled.
8. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy every creamy, spiced bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

Serving these bars is a breeze! Just cut them into squares—and if you’re feeling extra fancy, top them with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. They work as a perfect accompaniment to your favorite hot beverage, whether it’s coffee, tea, or pumpkin spice latte (we see you!). Want to be the star of the potluck? Bring these and prepare for compliments! 🌟

How to Store Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

To keep your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 5-7 days. If you want to save some for later, you can even freeze them! Just wrap them tightly and they’ll hold up for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

• Use room temperature cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps. No one wants lumpy cheesecake!
• Sift your powdered sugar: This helps eliminate any clumps that could mess with the smoothness of your filling.
• Don’t rush the chilling: Giving them a few hours to set really helps the flavors develop.

Variation

Feeling a little adventurous? Try throwing in chocolate chips or pecans into the filling for a nice twist. You could even layer on some caramel sauce before cutting—hello, fall flavor explosion!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Sure! Just make sure it’s well-cooked and pureed until smooth. That said, canned pumpkin is super convenient and works perfectly here.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, they taste even better after chilling overnight. It’s perfect for parties when you want to get ahead of the game.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a set edge and a slightly wobbly center. If you tap the pan and it jiggles a little, it’s likely ready to go. Just remember, it will continue setting as it cools!

Get ready to dive into the ultimate fall treat that’s both indulgent and simple to make. Happy baking! 🍰

Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

Delicious and creamy pumpkin spice cheesecake bars that are perfect for fall gatherings. Easy to make and sure to impress!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Servings: 16 squares

Course: Dessert, Sweet

Cuisine: American, Seasonal

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Crust

• 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cups 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 0.25 cups 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Filling

• 16 oz 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened Use room temperature for best results.
• 1 cup 1 cup pumpkin puree Can use fresh or canned.
• 1 cup 1 cup powdered sugar Sifted to avoid clumps.
• 2 large 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tsp 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 0.5 tsp 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 0.25 tsp 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 0.25 tsp 1/4 teaspoon salt

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. No lumps allowed!
4. Add pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly.

Baking

1. Bake for 40-45 minutes until set. You’ll know it’s done when the edges look firm but the middle is a bit jiggle-y.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully chilled.
3. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Serving these bars is easy! Cut them into squares and consider topping with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. They pair excellently with coffee, tea, or a pumpkin spice latte. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days, or freeze for 2-3 months.