As the leaves start to change colors and the air becomes crisp, it’s time to break out the pumpkin spice and start baking delicious fall treats. One of our favorite recipes is pumpkin pie mix cream cheese bars. These bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and spicy pumpkin pie. They are easy to make and are sure to be a hit at any fall gathering. So, let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin pie mix
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ginger
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until well combined.
- Press the cake mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In another large bowl, mix the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the pumpkin pie mix, 2 eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the cream cheese mixture and mix until well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture over the cake mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the center is set.
- Cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.
Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 230
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 250mg
Total Carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 21g
Protein: 3g
Cooking Time:
45-50 minutes
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon or electric mixer
Serving Suggestions:
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They are perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties.
Variations:
If you want to mix things up, you can try using a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. You can also add chopped nuts or raisins to the pumpkin mixture for added texture.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have pumpkin pie mix, you can use 1 can of plain pumpkin and add 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice. If you don’t have yellow cake mix, you can use white cake mix or spice cake mix. You can also use margarine instead of butter.
Storage:
Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing it. This will make it easier to mix and ensure a smooth texture.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into bars. This will prevent them from falling apart.
- If you want to make these bars ahead of time, you can bake them and then freeze them for up to 3 months.
Notes:
If you want to make these bars a little healthier, you can use a sugar-free cake mix and reduce the amount of sugar in the pumpkin mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of a boxed mix?
Yes, you can use a homemade cake mix if you prefer. Just make sure the recipe makes enough for a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer. The bars may be slightly less creamy, but they will still be delicious.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer.
Final Thoughts:
Pumpkin pie mix cream cheese bars are the perfect fall treat. They are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with your friends and family. These bars are creamy, spicy, and delicious. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and enjoy the flavors of fall!