Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with a Buttery Graham Crust

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Indulge in the flavors of fall with these creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, layered with rich cheesecake and spiced pumpkin on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars bring together the best of cheesecake and pumpkin pie, creating a decadent dessert that’s perfect for holidays or anytime you’re craving something special. With a touch of pumpkin spice and a hint of cinnamon, each bite is a taste of autumn comfort.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1⅔ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pumpkin Layer:

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
  • 1/4 cup water

For Topping (optional):

  • A dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly coated. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is set, then set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a spacious bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing until well combined. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until creamy.
  3. Create the Pumpkin Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. In a small saucepan, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup water and let it sit for 1 minute. Warm the gelatin mixture over low heat, stirring until dissolved. Then, stir the dissolved gelatin into the pumpkin mixture. Pour the pumpkin layer gently over the cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly.
  4. Bake the Bars: Place the baking pan back in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
  5. Serve: Slice into bars and top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, spiced layers!

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are an irresistible blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced pumpkin layers, perfectly complemented by a buttery graham crust. They’re easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing together two classic desserts in one delightful treat. Enjoy them as a show-stopping finale to any meal, or simply savor them with a cup of coffee for a cozy fall dessert.