Have you ever tasted a pumpkin cheesecake bar? The combination of pumpkin and cheesecake is simply divine. These Paula Deen pumpkin cheesecake bars are a perfect dessert for any occasion. They are easy to make and will leave your guests asking for more. With a creamy cheesecake layer on top of a pumpkin spiced crust, this dessert is sure to be a hit. So, let’s get started with the recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes.
- In another mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate mixing bowl, mix pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
- Add the pumpkin mixture to the cream cheese mixture and mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let it cool to room temperature before cutting into bars.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each bar contains approximately:
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 5g
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 50-55 minutes.
Equipment
You will need a mixing bowl, a 9×13 inch baking dish, and a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Serving Suggestions
These pumpkin cheesecake bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party, a family gathering, or a potluck. Serve them chilled with whipped cream on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Variations
You can add a variety of toppings to these pumpkin cheesecake bars, such as caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips. You can also experiment with different spices to give the bars a unique flavor.
Substitutions
If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use crushed ginger snaps or vanilla wafers instead. You can also substitute the pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a different twist.
Storage
These pumpkin cheesecake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- For a smoother texture, strain the pumpkin puree before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature before cutting into them to prevent them from falling apart.
Notes
You can make these bars ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them. They are perfect for entertaining!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different crust?
Yes, you can use a different crust such as a shortbread crust or a chocolate cookie crust.
Can I use a different spice mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different spice mixes to give the bars a unique flavor.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
Personal Thoughts
Overall, I think these Paula Deen pumpkin cheesecake bars are an amazing dessert. The combination of pumpkin and cheesecake is simply heavenly. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. I love how you can experiment with different spices and toppings to give the bars a unique flavor. I highly recommend trying out this recipe for yourself!