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