Go Back
Easy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Emily

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

These creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich vanilla cheesecake base, and a spiced pumpkin swirl on top — the perfect fall dessert that's easier than making a full cheesecake!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • electric mixer or whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Parchment paper
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour half of this mixture over the cooled crust.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, egg, brown sugar, spices, and flour until well combined. Gently fold the pumpkin mixture into the remaining cheesecake batter until just combined.
  4. Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the plain cheesecake layer in the baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is just set and slightly wobbly.
  5. Allow bars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  6. Cut into squares and top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

For a twist, add a caramel drizzle or a layer of whipped cream before serving. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze individual bars for up to 2 months. Be sure to chill fully for clean, creamy slices.