Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these pumpkin spice cheesecake bars! They’re the ultimate fall treat, with a creamy filling that’s just bursting with that cozy pumpkin spice flavor. Every time I make these, I can’t help but think of crisp autumn days, colorful leaves, and gatherings with friends and family. There’s something magical about serving these bars at a seasonal get-together, watching everyone’s faces light up with that first bite. Trust me, once you’ve tasted these little squares of happiness, you’ll be dreaming of them long after the last crumb is gone!
Ingredients List
- 1 ½ cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned is perfect for convenience)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice (feel free to use more if you’re a spice lover!)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How to Prepare Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
Making these pumpkin spice cheesecake bars is a breeze! I promise, you’ll be amazed at how straightforward and rewarding this process is. Let’s dive right into the step-by-step instructions, so you can enjoy these delightful treats in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important to ensure your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs and melted unsalted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed and resembles wet sand.
- Now, take your mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a greased baking pan. I like to use the back of a measuring cup to get an even layer. This will be the delicious crust!
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. You want it to be free of lumps – trust me, this makes all the difference!
- Next, add in the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, and salt. Mix everything until it’s well combined and looks silky. The aroma is already heavenly!
- Now, pour this luscious cheesecake mixture over your graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Just look at that gorgeous color!
- Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle too much, but still has that lovely creamy texture.
- Once baked, let the bars cool at room temperature for a bit, then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours. This chilling time helps them firm up and makes cutting them into bars a breeze.
And there you have it! Your pumpkin spice cheesecake bars are almost ready to be devoured. I can already taste the warm flavors bursting through with each bite—what a treat for the senses!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super simple to make—perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers!
- The creamy pumpkin spice filling is a delightful blend of flavors that screams fall.
- The graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth cheesecake perfectly.
- These bars are a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, and everyone will be asking for the recipe!
- They’re easy to slice into perfect portions, making them perfect for sharing (or not!).
- Each bite is like a warm hug, reminding you of cozy evenings and festive celebrations.
- You can make them ahead of time, saving you stress on busy days!
- They’re versatile—enjoy them plain or topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra pumpkin spice!
- These bars are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful experience that brings everyone together.
Tips for Success
Getting these pumpkin spice cheesecake bars just right is all about the little things! Here are my top tips to ensure your dessert turns out fabulously every time:
- Use quality ingredients: Since the cream cheese is a star player here, opt for a good-quality brand. It really makes a difference in flavor and texture!
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Don’t overmix: When you’re combining the cheesecake ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air, which might lead to cracks as they cool.
- Check for doneness: Your bars are ready when the edges are set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. They’ll firm up as they cool!
- Let them chill: I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting your bars chill for those 2 hours (or even overnight!) allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes cutting easier.
- Experiment with toppings: While they’re delicious on their own, consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of toasted pecans for an extra layer of flavor and texture!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone with your pumpkin spice cheesecake bars. Happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your pumpkin spice cheesecake bars! Here are some delicious variations that I absolutely love:
- Chocolate Crust: Swap out the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust! Just crush up some Oreo cookies and mix them with melted butter for a rich twist.
- Nutty Flavor: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the graham cracker crust for a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Swirl it Up: Before baking, spoon some caramel sauce or chocolate ganache on top of the cheesecake mixture and use a knife to create beautiful swirls. It adds a stunning look and extra flavor!
- More Spice: If you love a good spice kick, increase the pumpkin spice to 3 teaspoons or add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves for a warmer flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Top your cooled bars with a light layer of cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat. Just mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla until creamy.
- Fruit Topping: Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds add a lovely tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the bars. Just sprinkle them on top before serving!
- Maple Flavor: For a cozy twist, replace half of the granulated sugar with maple syrup. It adds a beautiful depth of flavor that screams fall!
These variations are not only fun to try but also allow you to customize your pumpkin spice cheesecake bars to fit your personal taste. So go ahead and get creative—you can’t go wrong with these delicious treats!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these scrumptious pumpkin spice cheesecake bars, and now you’ve got some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store them to keep that deliciousness intact:
- Store in the fridge: Place your pumpkin spice cheesecake bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them!
- Freezing for later: If you want to save some for a cozy day down the road, you can freeze them! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them so you don’t forget what deliciousness is waiting for you!
- Thawing: When you’re ready to indulge, simply transfer the bars from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. This helps maintain their creamy texture without losing any flavors.
- Reheating: If you prefer them warm, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might end up with a soup instead of a bar! A little warmth brings out those cozy flavors even more.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your pumpkin spice cheesecake bars for days to come! Trust me, they’re just as delightful the next day (or week) as they are fresh out of the oven!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delicious pumpkin spice cheesecake bars! While I believe in enjoying treats in moderation, it’s always nice to have an idea of what’s in them, right? Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (that’s one scrumptious bar):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use, so consider them as a helpful guideline rather than hard and fast numbers. Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors without a worry!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Absolutely! You can use fresh pumpkin puree if you’ve got it. Just make sure to cook and puree your pumpkin until it’s smooth. The flavor will be just as delicious, and it’s a great way to use up those fresh pumpkins from fall!
How do I know when the bars are done?
You’ll know your pumpkin spice cheesecake bars are done when the edges look set and the center has a slight jiggle. It should not be overly wobbly, but still creamy! They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if it seems a bit soft at first.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
You bet! These bars are perfect for making a day or two in advance. Just let them chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. In fact, I think they taste even better after sitting for a bit as the flavors meld together!
Can I use a different type of crust?
Of course! While the graham cracker crust is a classic, feel free to experiment. An Oreo crust adds a rich chocolatey flavor, or you could try a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. The possibilities are endless!
What’s the best way to cut the bars?
To get clean cuts, make sure your bars are fully chilled. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even cut them into fun shapes with cookie cutters!
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! These pumpkin spice cheesecake bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
What toppings do you recommend?
While they’re delightful on their own, I love topping them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra pumpkin spice or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Fresh whipped cream adds a lovely lightness that pairs perfectly with the dense cheesecake!
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars to Warm Your Heart Today
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious pumpkin spice cheesecake bars with a creamy filling and graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, vanilla, pumpkin spice, and salt; mix until combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can be topped with whipped cream.
- Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pumpkin spice cheesecake bars
