Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars

These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are a delightful autumn treat, blending the rich flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese atop a buttery crust. Perfect for fall gatherings, they offer a comforting and indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a medium bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Beat until well combined and smooth. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
3. Add the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans with granulated sugar. Sprinkle over the pumpkin filling. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly browned. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out and cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 9 servings, with a total time of 1 hour, including 20 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking.

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans or substitute with crushed graham crackers for added crunch.
• Spice Variations: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice for an all-in-one seasoning.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. These bars can be enjoyed cold or warmed slightly in the microwave.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin?
   Yes, just ensure it’s well-pureed and cooked.
2. Can I make these bars in advance?
   Absolutely! They can be made a day or two ahead of serving.
3. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
   Mascarpone cheese is a good substitute for a similar texture.
4. Can I freeze these bars?
   Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
5. How do I know when they are done?
   The filling should be set with slightly browned edges.
6. Can I add chocolate chips?
   Yes, mini chocolate chips would be a great addition to the filling.
7. Is there a dairy-free option?
   Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter for a dairy-free version.
8. What can I serve with these bars?
   They pair well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.
10. What if I don’t have all the spices?
    You can use pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are a delightful dessert that encapsulates the essence of fall. With a creamy filling and a buttery crust, these bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite at any gathering. Enjoy every bite!

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