Are you a fan of pumpkin desserts? Do you love the creamy texture of cheesecake? If your answer is yes to both, then pumpkin cheese cake bars are a must-try for you! These delightful treats combine the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with the rich and indulgent taste of cheesecake, creating a mouthwatering dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Pumpkin cheese cake bars are a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of pumpkin pie without the hassle of making a full pie. They are incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or a twist on the traditional, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients for Classic Pumpkin Cheese Cake Bars:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
– 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before cutting.
6. Once chilled, cut the pumpkin cheese cake bars into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
These pumpkin cheese cake bars are a delightful fusion of two classic desserts, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich, creamy cheesecake filling is complemented by the warm, spiced pumpkin, creating a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Feel free to experiment with different toppings or mix-ins to make these pumpkin cheese cake bars your own. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top, or garnishing with a dollop of whipped cream. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, pumpkin cheese cake bars are a delicious way to celebrate the fall season and all its wonderful flavors.