The Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe for Autumn Bliss

Rich and creamy pumpkin cheesecake bars dance between decadent sweetness and seasonal comfort.

Layers of silky filling nestle atop a buttery graham cracker base.

Warm autumn spices whisper through each delectable bite.

Seasonal ingredients shine in this simple yet impressive dessert.

Baking these treats fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone closer.

A single square promises pure indulgence without overwhelming complexity.

Come discover how effortlessly you can create this crowd-pleasing dessert that celebrates fall’s most beloved flavors.

Storage Advice for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in the container to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out.
• Freeze cheesecake bars for up to 2 months by layering them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking.

FAQs

• What are graham cracker crumbs?

Graham cracker crumbs are finely ground graham crackers used as a base for many desserts like cheesecake bars, providing a sweet and crunchy foundation for the recipe.

• Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional sugars and spices.

• How do I know when the cheesecake bars are fully baked?

The cheesecake bars are done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. They will continue to firm up as they cool and chill in the refrigerator.

Why Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Are a Sweet Treat

• Conquer Seasonal Baking: These pumpkin cheesecake bars bring autumn flavors right to your kitchen with minimal stress and maximum deliciousness.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations where everyone craves a sweet, spiced treat that looks professionally made.
• Master Simple Layering Technique: Learn an easy method of creating a stunning dessert by combining graham cracker crust with creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling, requiring basic baking skills.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adding optional toppings like whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts to personalize your delectable bars.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake bars.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust and adds rich flavor.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the creamy and smooth texture of the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the tangy cream cheese.
• Pumpkin Puree: Brings a classic autumn flavor and beautiful orange color to the dessert.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the filling.

• Vanilla Extract, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: These warm spices create the quintessential pumpkin pie flavor profile and enhance the overall taste of the cheesecake bars.

How to Prepare Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven and Get the Baking Dish Ready

Crank up your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Graham Cracker Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Melted butter

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pop it in the oven and bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Remove and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.

• Pumpkin puree
• Eggs
• Sour cream
• Vanilla extract
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Cinnamon

Blend everything until the mixture is completely uniform and free of lumps.

Step 4: Pour and Spread the Cheesecake Layer

Carefully pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure to reach all corners of the dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish back into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.

The center should be slightly jiggly but set around the edges. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent cracking.

Step 6: Chill and Slice

Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, lift the bars out using the parchment paper edges.

Slice into neat squares. Top with a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Pro Tips for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

• Ensure graham cracker crust is firmly packed to create a sturdy base for the creamy pumpkin cheesecake bars.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother, lump-free mixing and better texture.
• Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
• Test doneness by gently shaking the pan; a slight wobble in the center indicates perfectly baked cheesecake bars.
• Allow bars to chill completely for at least 4 hours to set properly and develop rich, intense flavors.

Variations for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut milk, and replace eggs with flax eggs for a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Carb Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Substitute graham crackers with crushed pecans or almond flour, use sugar substitute like erythritol, and reduce carbohydrate content.
• Spiced Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Add maple syrup instead of regular sugar, increase warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a richer autumn flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

• Fall Harvest Party Platter: Arrange cheesecake bars on a rustic wooden board with mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and whole pecans for a cozy autumn gathering vibe.
• Thanksgiving Dessert Centerpiece: Stack bars in a pyramid, dust with powdered sugar, and garnish with caramel drizzle to create an elegant holiday dessert display.
• Afternoon Tea Elegance: Serve bars on delicate china plates with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a small dollop of fresh whipped cream, perfect for a sophisticated tea time treat.
• Weekend Brunch Delight: Pair bars with a warm spiced latte or chai tea, creating a delectable weekend morning indulgence that feels both comforting and special.

Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 16 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulgent pumpkin cheesecake bars blend autumn’s warmth with creamy richness, creating a dessert that celebrates seasonal flavors. Spiced graham cracker crust and silky pumpkin filling invite you to savor fall’s delightful essence.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust:

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Filling:

• 16 ounces (450 grams) cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Topping:

• 1 cup whipped cream (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
2. Blend graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until thoroughly combined, then firmly press the mixture into the prepared pan’s bottom. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove and let cool.
3. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese and sugar until creamy and uniform, scraping down sides of the bowl to ensure no lumps remain.
4. Incorporate pumpkin puree, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger into the cream cheese mixture, blending until smooth and fully integrated.
5. Gently pour the pumpkin cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, using a spatula to spread evenly and create a level surface.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be lightly golden and pulling away from the pan’s sides.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
8. Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight to allow bars to set firmly and develop rich flavor.
9. Using parchment paper overhang, lift bars from pan and slice into squares. Optionally garnish with dollops of whipped cream before serving.

Notes

• Ensure graham crackers are finely crushed for a smooth, even crust that holds together perfectly.
• Use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a silky, lump-free cheesecake mixture that blends seamlessly.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent air bubbles and cracks on the surface of your cheesecake bars.
• Experiment with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for a low-carb alternative that’s equally delicious.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 140 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg