Recipe

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Perfect for Any Time of Year

By Kimberly Fu at Purdue University

Fall screams pumpkin everything and these bars are sure not to disappoint. I know you've probably seen no-bake cheesecake, rainbow cheesecake and mini cheesecake recipes; but in these pumpkin cheesecake bars, the harmonious combination of both cream cheese and pumpkin spice is perfect.

Do not let the total time discourage you because it is 120% worth it. Make this the night before thanksgiving as a dessert and you and your guests will be asking for seconds.

#SpoonTip: Here is how you can make your own pumpkin puree if you can't find it. 

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 6 hrs
  • Total Time: 6 hrs 30 mins
  • Servings: 12
Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 4 8oz packages cream cheese
  • 1 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 4 eggs

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Step 1

Preheat oven to 300°F and line a 13 x 9" baking dish with parchment paper. Gather all ingredients and make sure cream cheese and eggs are room temperature.

Jane Yeo

Step 2

Crush 1 1/2 cups of graham crackers.

#SpoonTip: Use a plastic bag for easy cleanup.

Jane Yeo

Step 3

Add graham crackers with 1/4 cup of melted butter in a bowl.

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Step 4

Press mixture into the bottom of a baking dish and make sure it is compact.

Jane Yeo

Step 5

In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together with a hand mixer.

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Step 6

Add 1 egg at a time and beat after each egg until light and fluffy.

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Step 7

Add vanilla extract and beat in.

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Step 8

Divide batter in half and spread half onto the graham cracker crust and save the other half.

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Step 9

Add pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice to the remaining batter and mix thoroughly with a spatula.

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Step 10

Spread the pumpkin purée evenly on top of the cream cheese mixture.

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Step 11

Place baking dish into the oven and bake for 50 minutes; after, turn the oven off and open the door slightly for 1 hour.

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Step 12

Place dish in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before cutting—overnight is best.

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Step 13

Cut into bars and enjoy!

#SpoonTip: Optional to serve with whipped cream and cinnamon.

Jane Yeo