Name: Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for crust); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1 cup canned pumpkin purée; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/8 tsp ground cloves (optional); 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for structure)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are everything you love about pumpkin pie and cheesecake, all wrapped up in a neat, sliceable format. They’re easier to serve than traditional pie or cheesecake and perfect for feeding a crowd. With their silky texture, warm spice, and balanced sweetness, they offer a sophisticated flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Graham cracker crumbs
Unsalted butter (melted)
Granulated sugar
Cream cheese (softened)
Brown sugar
Canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground ginger
Ground cloves (optional)
All-purpose flour (optional, for structure)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add brown sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
Mix in the pumpkin purée, eggs, vanilla extract, and spices until the batter is smooth and uniform.
Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when shaken.
Let cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Slice into bars and serve chilled. Optional: top with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel before serving.

Servings and timing

Makes 16 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Chill time: 3 hours
Total time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Use gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers for a bolder crust flavor.
Add a swirl of plain cheesecake batter for a marbled look.
Mix in crushed pecans or walnuts to the crust or sprinkle on top for added texture.
Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different depth of sweetness.
Add a crumb topping for a streusel-style finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of purée?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices. Stick with pure pumpkin purée for best results.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making a day or two in advance and storing in the fridge.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set and the center should jiggle slightly. It will firm up more as it cools and chills.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and richness.

What kind of crust works best?

Graham crackers are classic, but gingersnaps or shortbread cookies make excellent alternatives.

Can I add whipped cream on top?

Absolutely! A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel adds a lovely finishing touch.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

Should the bars be served chilled?

Yes, chilling helps the cheesecake set properly and enhances the flavor.

Can I add chocolate?

Yes, a drizzle of melted chocolate or a chocolate swirl would be delicious with the pumpkin spice.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut for neat, even bars.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for fall—rich, creamy, spiced just right, and easy to serve. Whether you’re bringing them to a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy your seasonal dessert cravings. With their simple prep and crowd-pleasing flavor, they’re a must-bake for pumpkin lovers everywhere.