Description
These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich pumpkin filling spiced to perfection, and a creamy cream cheese layer. Topped with whipped cream and pecans, they’re a delightful autumn treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pumpkin Layer:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1 large egg
- Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Topping:
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the pumpkin layer: In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and egg until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the fillings: Pour the pumpkin mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Gently spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set completely.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired. Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a richer flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
