A Slice of Autumn Bliss Awaits!
When the leaves start to fall and the air turns crisp, it can only mean one thing: it’s pumpkin season! There’s something undeniably delightful about enjoying a cozy slice of Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, a dish that marries the creaminess of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie. Imagine cutting into a bar that offers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, bringing joy to your taste buds. Did you know that pumpkin isn’t just for Halloween? It’s an ingredient packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it the star of many recipes.
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ⅓ cup sugar
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 8-oz packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well blended. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add sugar and beat until smooth. Mix in the pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until fully combined.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve with your favorite toppings!