Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the perfect fall treat with these creamy and delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars! Made with a flavorful blend of pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and warm spices, these bars are the ultimate dessert for the season.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• Whipped cream and caramel sauce for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour pumpkin mixture over the crust and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set.
6. Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
7. Cut into bars and serve with whipped cream and caramel sauce on top.

Popular questions:

• Will the bars hold up if I make them the day before?

Yes, the bars will still be delicious if made a day in advance. Just be sure to store them in the refrigerator until serving.

• Can I use store-bought pumpkin pie spice instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought pumpkin pie spice can be used as a substitute in this recipe for convenience.

• Can I use a different type of crust for these bars?

Feel free to experiment with different crusts, such as gingersnap or Oreo cookie crusts, to customize the flavor of the bars.

• How can I make these bars gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers or your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust.

• Can I freeze these bars for later?

Yes, these bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

• Is it necessary to use parchment paper in the baking dish?

Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bars out of the dish for slicing, but it is not necessary if you prefer not to use it.

• Can I substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cream cheese?

While Greek yogurt can be substituted, it may alter the texture slightly, so keep that in mind if making this substitution.

• How can I adjust the sweetness level of the bars?

If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can increase the amount of sugar used in the filling to suit your taste.

• Can I omit the eggs for a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Eggs are used as a binding agent in this recipe, but you can explore alternative egg substitutes such as flax eggs or commercial egg replacers for a vegetarian version.

• Can I add a streusel topping to these bars for extra crunch?

Adding a streusel topping can add a delightful crunch to these bars. Simply mix together butter, flour, and sugar to create the streusel and sprinkle it over the pumpkin layer before baking.

Helpful tips:

• For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese in this recipe.
• Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your personal preference for spiciness.
• Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set properly.
• Serve these bars with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra burst of flavor.
• You can add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar just before serving for an elegant presentation.
• To make these bars more decadent, drizzle them with chocolate sauce along with the caramel sauce.
• Experiment with different toppings such as chopped nuts, toffee bits, or crushed cookies for added texture and flavor.
• To make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
• These bars can be served warm or cold, depending on personal preference.
• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Expert Secrets:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth blending of the cream cheese filling.
• Use high-quality pumpkin puree for the best flavor in these bars.
• Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough texture.
• Test for doneness by gently shaking the pan – the center should jiggle slightly when done.
• For a decorative touch, swirl a bit of caramel sauce on top of the bars before baking for a marbled effect.
• To prevent cracks from forming on the surface, bake the bars in a water bath by placing the baking dish in a larger pan filled with hot water.
• For a more pronounced pumpkin flavor, increase the amount of pumpkin puree in the filling.
• To make these bars more festive, sprinkle crushed gingersnaps on top before serving.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra cinnamon to the pumpkin filling.
• Experiment with different types of sweeteners, such as maple syrup or honey, for a unique flavor profile.