Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars

These Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars are a delightful fall treat that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the warm spices of pumpkin pie. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars stand out with their creamy texture and crunchy pecan topping. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare while impressing your guests with a unique dessert that celebrates the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: Enjoy the perfect blend of cheesecake and pumpkin pie in one bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Everyone will rave about this tasty and visually appealing dessert.
• Seasonal Appeal: The warm spices make these bars a perfect fit for fall festivities.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will save you time and keep your kitchen organized.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (8 x 8)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: The right size ensures even baking for all layers of your cheesecake pumpkin bars.
• Electric mixer: Makes blending ingredients quick and easy for a smooth filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups Biscoff® European cookies, (crushed)
• 1/8 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup butter, (melted)

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 8 oz pkg cream cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Pumpkin Layer

• 1 1/3 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, (packed)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Topping

• 1 cup pecans, (coarsely chopped)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp butter

How to Make Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray an 8 x 8 baking dish with non-stick spray. This will prevent sticking and help with easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Biscoff® cookies, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 10 minutes until set.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In another bowl, beat together cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla using an electric mixer until smooth. Pour this mixture over the baked crust, spreading evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together canned pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. Carefully pour this mixture over the cheesecake layer.

Step 5: Bake Your Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until set. The edges should look firm while the center may still have a slight jiggle.

Step 6: Prepare Topping

While baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in chopped pecans and sugar until they become caramelized but be careful not to burn them.

Step 7: Finish Up

Once baked and slightly cooled, sprinkle the candied pecans on top of your cheesecake pumpkin bars. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares for serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars

These cheesecake pumpkin bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a comforting dessert.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch that complements the pumpkin flavor.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Enjoy these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

Garnish with Candied Pecans

• Sprinkle additional candied pecans on top for added crunch and flavor that enhances each bite.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• A warm beverage pairs perfectly with these bars, balancing the sweetness and providing a cozy atmosphere.

How to Perfect Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars

Achieving the perfect cheesecake pumpkin bars involves simple techniques that can make all the difference. Follow these tips to enhance your baking skills.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Allow your cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in your bars.
• Check Baking Time – Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to dry bars. They should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when done.
• Cool Gradually – Let the bars cool in the oven with the door ajar for about 30 minutes before transferring them to room temperature. This helps prevent cracking.
• Chill Before Serving – Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving. Chilling allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars

These cheesecake pumpkin bars pair nicely with a variety of side dishes, enhancing their flavor profile. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Spiced Apple Compote – A warm apple compote adds a fruity element that harmonizes well with the pumpkin flavor.
2. Ginger Snap Cookies – The spiciness of ginger snap cookies complements the creamy sweetness of the cheesecake pumpkin bars.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness and slight caramelization provide a lovely contrast to the dessert’s richness.
4. Cranberry Salad – A tart cranberry salad offers freshness, cutting through the richness of the cheesecake pumpkin bars.
5. Vanilla Yogurt – A dollop of vanilla yogurt provides creaminess while adding tanginess that balances out sweet flavors.
6. Warm Spiced Cider – This drink enhances fall flavors, making it an excellent accompaniment during cooler months.
7. Carrot Sticks with Hummus – Crunchy veggies paired with hummus offer a healthy contrast and lightness next to decadent dessert bars.
8. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can serve as an interesting pairing, creating a balance between sweet and savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dessert game.

• Ignoring the crust: A soggy or uneven crust can ruin the texture. Always ensure your cookies are finely crushed and mixed with melted butter before pressing them firmly into the baking dish.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling. Let the cream cheese and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can introduce too much air, leading to cracks during baking. Mix just until combined for a smoother finish.
• Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use a toothpick to test; it should come out clean but not dry.
• Cutting too soon: Patience is key! Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to maintain their shape and prevent crumbling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds at a time until warmed through, but be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through, ensuring even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars that might help you while preparing this delightful treat.

How do I know when my Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars are done?

The bars are done when the edges are set, and the center jiggles slightly but does not look liquid.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

How can I customize my Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars?

Add spices like ginger or cloves for extra flavor. You could also incorporate chocolate chips or swirl in some caramel sauce!

What should I serve with these Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars?

They pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars are an exciting blend of cheesecake and pumpkin pie flavors, perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows for various toppings and mix-ins, so feel free to get creative! Enjoy making this delightful dessert that is sure to impress family and friends.