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Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with a Buttery Graham Crust: A Fall Favorite


  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12–16 bars

Description

These Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fall treat, combining the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake layer, and a perfectly spiced pumpkin topping, this dessert is the perfect way to celebrate the cozy vibes of the season. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s ideal for Thanksgiving dinners, potlucks, or any autumn gathering.


Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1⅔ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pumpkin Layer:

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
  • ¼ cup water

Optional Toppings:

  • Whipped cream
  • A dusting of cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly combined.
  • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to smooth it out.
  • Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the crust is set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the fillings.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  • Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

3. Prepare the Pumpkin Layer

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • In a small saucepan, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over ¼ cup of water. Let it sit for 1 minute to bloom, then heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the gelatin dissolves completely.
  • Stir the dissolved gelatin into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring everything is well blended.

4. Assemble the Layers

  • Pour the pumpkin layer gently over the cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

5. Bake the Bars

  • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when the pan is gently shaken.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

6. Chill and Serve

  • Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to fully set.
  • Once chilled, slice into squares or rectangles.
  • Add optional toppings like whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra festive touch.

Notes

  • Room-Temperature Ingredients: Bring your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
  • Pumpkin Purée vs. Pie Mix: Make sure to use pure canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugar and spices.
  • Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American