Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-cooked and blended into a smooth puree. Fresh pumpkin can sometimes be more watery, so drain any excess liquid before using.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?

The bars should be set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool and chill in the refrigerator.

Can Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. These bars taste even better after chilling overnight, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays or gatherings.

What’s the best way to cut neat squares without making a mess?

Chill the bars completely before slicing, and use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. Lining the pan with parchment also makes lifting and slicing easier.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars – 7 Delicious Recipes You Must Try

Description

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are creamy, spiced, and layered with graham cracker crust, cheesecake filling, and pumpkin swirl. They’re the ultimate fall dessert—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger mix)
1 tablespoon flour

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment, leaving overhang for lifting later.
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the pan to form a crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
Beat cream cheese with both sugars until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, mixing just until combined.
Pour most of the cheesecake batter over the crust.
In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, flour, and 1 cup cheesecake batter. Drop spoonfuls over the plain layer.
Use a knife to swirl gently for a marbled effect.
Bake 40–45 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Cool completely.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing into bars.

Notes

Chill bars fully before slicing for clean edges. Use parchment overhang to lift easily. For variations, try a gingersnap crust, drizzle with caramel, or sprinkle with pecans. Store covered in the fridge up to 5 days or freeze for longer.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 250
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg