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Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Best Easy Fall Dessert

creamy pumpkin cheesecake bars - featured image

These creamy pumpkin cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a silky, spiced cream cheese filling. They are an easy, crowd-pleasing fall dessert that balances sweetness with cozy autumn flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 12 tablespoons granulated sugar (for crust)
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for crust)
  • 16 ounces full-fat block cream cheese, softened
  • 15 ounces 100% pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ginger
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and grease lightly.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until fragrant, then let cool.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides.
  5. Add granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt to the cream cheese. Mix on low speed until combined.
  6. Add pumpkin puree and sour cream. Mix on low speed until just combined.
  7. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Add vanilla extract last and mix until smooth.
  8. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
  10. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before cutting.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps. Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracking. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife wiped with a warm, damp cloth between slices. The bars must be chilled completely to set properly.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin cheesecake bars, fall dessert, easy pumpkin recipe, graham cracker crust, cream cheese bars, autumn baking