Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars (Printer-Friendly Version)

Creamy spiced cheesecake bars with a graham crust, ideal for warming fall moments and festive treats.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Filling

04 - 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
10 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional)

→ Toppings (optional)

11 - Whipped cream
12 - Caramel sauce
13 - Chopped pecans
14 - Ground cinnamon or nutmeg

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly moistened. Press mixture firmly into bottom of a parchment-lined 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes to set.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar, then incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Stir in pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and optional flour until fully blended.
03 - Pour filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly. Bake at 325°F for 35-40 minutes until edges are firm but center slightly jiggles.
04 - Allow bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to set fully before slicing.

# Additional Tips:

01 - For best texture, avoid overmixing eggs to prevent cracks. Use full-fat cream cheese for creaminess.