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Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
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Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake with warm fall spices and pumpkin puree for a comforting and delicious seasonal dessert. Easy to make and perfect for gatherings, these bars offer a smooth texture balanced by a buttery graham cracker crust, embodying the essence of autumn in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for crust)

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream (optional)

Pumpkin Spice Layer

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Melt the butter and mix it thoroughly with the graham cracker crumbs and optional sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to create an even crust that will support the cheesecake layer perfectly.
  2. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the granulated and brown sugars, blending well before incorporating the eggs one at a time. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream or heavy cream, if using, and continue mixing until creamy and smooth.
  3. Add pumpkin and spices: Gently fold in the pumpkin puree along with the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed for consistent fall flavor throughout the filling.
  4. Assemble and bake: Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the top. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars creamy.
  5. Cool and chill: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for the bars to firm up and develop their full flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients such as softened cream cheese and eggs for a smooth filling.
  • Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
  • Consider baking in a water bath for extra creamy texture and even heat distribution.
  • Chill the bars thoroughly for clean slices and enhanced flavor.
  • The center should jiggle slightly when done; it will firm up as it cools.
  • Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for smooth slices.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating is generally unnecessary, but if desired, warm gently at 300°F for a few minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, cheesecake, dessert, fall, autumn, pumpkin cheesecake bars, spiced pumpkin, cream cheese dessert, easy dessert, holiday dessert

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/pumpkin-cheesecake-bars/