Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars – A Fall Dessert Favorite 🎃🧀🍂
These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced pumpkin pie in an easy-to-make dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust and warm autumn flavors, they’re an absolute must-bake for cozy fall gatherings, holiday potlucks, or when you simply crave a slice of autumn magic. 💚
Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars 💚
- ✅ Easy & Impressive: All the flavor of pumpkin cheesecake in bar form.
- ✅ Warm Fall Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves shine in every bite.
- ✅ Perfect Make-Ahead: Chill and slice the next day for stress-free entertaining.
- ✅ Creamy & Buttery: A crunchy graham base meets silky pumpkin cheesecake.
🎃 Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Ingredients
-
- For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs 🍪
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 🧈
- 2 tbsp sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup pumpkin puree 🎃
- 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice 🍂
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🌿
- ¼ tsp salt 🧂
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
Set oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. - Make the crust:
In a bowl, mix graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly. - Prepare the filling:
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in pumpkin puree, spices, vanilla, and salt until fully combined. - Assemble:
Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. - Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight preferred). - Slice & serve:
Use the parchment to lift the bars from the pan. Slice into squares and serve chilled. 🎃🧁
💡 Pro Tips & Flavor Variations
- ✨ Swirl in extra cream cheese: For a marbled effect, reserve ¼ cup of plain cheesecake filling and swirl it into the pumpkin layer.
- ✨ Crust variation: Try gingersnap cookies for a spicier crust.
- ✨ Add toppings: Drizzle with caramel, sprinkle with pecans, or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- ✨ Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
🌿 Nutritional Highlights
Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and fiber, while cream cheese adds protein and calcium. These bars are a seasonal indulgence with comforting fall flavors in every bite.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- ✅ Make-ahead: These bars are best made a day in advance for easy slicing and serving.
- ✅ Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- ✅ Freezer-friendly: Freeze bars individually for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and richness. Low-fat may result in a slightly softer filling.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, checking for doneness.
Do I need a water bath?
No water bath required—these bars bake evenly without cracking. Just avoid overbaking.
Creamy, Spiced, and Simply Irresistible 💚
These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars bring all the cozy vibes of fall in a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert. 🎃🧁💬 Pin it now and share your autumn baking adventures!
