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Halloween Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin cheesecake bars are a layered dessert combining a buttery crust, a creamy pumpkin-flavored cheesecake layer, and a spiced topping. The dish is baked until set, resulting in a smooth, dense texture with a vibrant orange hue and warming autumnal spices throughout.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 ½ tsps cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp clove
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl, then stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes to set, then set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add pumpkin purée, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove, mixing until fully combined and the batter is smooth.
  3. Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for a flat surface.
  4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when shaken. The surface may crack slightly, which is normal. Remove from oven and let cool completely to room temperature.
  5. In a small bowl, mix sour cream, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth and slightly thickened. Spread this topping gently over the cooled cheesecake layer, smoothing with a spatula to cover evenly.
  6. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set. Slice into squares and serve, enjoying the creamy pumpkin flavor with a hint of spice.

Notes

For a festive touch, decorate the top with whipped cream or candy eyes before serving.