Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are a delightful way to bring the flavors of autumn into your dessert rotation. With a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake layer on top of a crisp, gluten-free cookie crust, these bars offer a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger brings warmth, while the cream cheese keeps everything rich and smooth. The recipe is straightforward, making it easy to prepare for gatherings or as a sweet treat to have on hand. Best served chilled, these bars are a fantastic addition to any autumnal celebration, from Thanksgiving to a cozy night with family.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, spiced, and sweet flavors. Featuring a gluten-free cookie crust and a pumpkin-infused cheesecake layer, these bars are easy to make and delightful to eat. With warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, they are ideal for autumn gatherings or as a comforting treat.
INGREDIENTS
- Melted butter: ¼ cup
- Gluten-free cookie crumbs: 1 ½ cups
- Cream cheese (softened): 16 oz
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup
- Large eggs: 2
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Pumpkin puree: 1 cup
- Cinnamon: ½ tsp
- Nutmeg: ¼ tsp
- Ginger: ¼ tsp
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Set oven to 350°F. Shape an 8x8 baking tray with parchment.
- Step 2:
- Combine cookie crumbs and melted butter; press into the pan base, baking for a short 10 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Blend cream cheese with sugar till creamy; include eggs and vanilla, beat till completely mixed.
- Step 4:
- Set aside 1 cup of the cheesecake blend. Integrate pumpkin puree and spices into the remainder.
- Step 5:
- Spread pumpkin mix atop crust, drop dollops of plain cheesecake mix above, and swirl with a blade.
- Step 6:
- Bake 35-40 minutes until firm. Cool, then refrigerate for a minimum of two hours.
- Step 7:
- Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual bars and thaw before serving.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon or drizzle with caramel before serving.
Helpful Notes
- For a smoother finish, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before blending to avoid lumps.
- If you want a stronger pumpkin flavor, add a pinch more of your favorite autumn spices.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use a knife dipped in hot water to get clean, smooth cuts when slicing the bars.
Add a Taste of Autumn to Your Dessert Table
These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the perfect way to bring autumn flavors to your dessert table. With a smooth, creamy texture and warm, spiced notes, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite. Ideal for sharing, they bring a comforting, festive feel to any occasion.
FAQs
Can I use regular cookie crumbs instead of gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute with regular cookie crumbs if you don’t need the bars to be gluten-free.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overmixing the batter or baking at too high a temperature can cause cracks. Be sure to mix gently and bake as directed.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add whipped cream, nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate for an added touch of decadence.
How do I make sure the crust doesn’t crumble?
Press the cookie crumbs firmly into the pan and bake as directed to ensure the crust holds together well.
Summary
These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars feature a creamy layer of pumpkin-infused cheesecake on a gluten-free cookie crust. The bars are easy to make, with a lovely swirl effect that looks as good as it tastes. With the warming spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, each bite feels like a celebration of autumn flavors. Serve them chilled for a perfect, smooth texture that complements the spiced pumpkin layer. These bars are ideal for autumn gatherings, or as a quick dessert you can make in advance and enjoy whenever you like.