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Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe

4.6 from 126 reviews

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars combine a rich and creamy pumpkin-spiced cheesecake filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust, making a perfect dessert for fall and holiday gatherings. The smooth texture paired with warm spices offers a delightful treat that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons white granulated sugar
  • 5 tablespoons butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 15 ounces pumpkin puree, packed
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, white sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a lined 9×9 inch baking pan to form the crust.
  2. Mix the cream cheese filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract, blending until combined. Incorporate the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Add pumpkin and spices: Stir in the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until the filling is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
  4. Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly when shaken gently.
  5. Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set before cutting into bars.
  6. Serve: Once chilled and set, cut into bars and serve. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a lump-free filling.
  • Do not overbake the cheesecake to prevent cracking; the center should remain slightly jiggly.
  • Use canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for best results.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crackers or nuts.

Keywords: pumpkin cheesecake bars, pumpkin dessert, fall dessert, holiday dessert, cheesecake bars