Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

Posted on May 9, 2025

The leaves are turning, there’s a crispness in the air, and you know what that means—it’s pumpkin season! These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fall dessert to satisfy your seasonal cravings. Creamy, spiced layers of pumpkin cheesecake sit atop a buttery graham cracker crust, creating a dessert that’s indulgent, flavorful, and oh-so-festive. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What makes these cheesecake bars so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and that luscious creamy texture. They’re easy to make, sliceable, and portable—ideal for gatherings or just cozy nights in. Trust me, once you’ve tried these, they’ll become a fall tradition in your kitchen!

The Story Behind Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

When I think of fall, my mind immediately goes to pumpkin patches, cinnamon-scented candles, and baked treats fresh out of the oven. These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars were actually inspired by a family Thanksgiving years ago. I wanted a dessert that combined my love of pumpkin pie with the creamy decadence of cheesecake—and voilà, this recipe was born!

While pumpkin pie is a classic, I wanted to create something different yet just as festive. Cheesecake bars feel a bit more modern and versatile. Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected this recipe, adding a little more spice here, adjusting the crust there. Now, it’s a staple in our fall dessert lineup. And let me tell you, the aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the house as these bake is pure magic.

This recipe is also wonderfully adaptable. You can make it for Halloween parties, Friendsgiving dinners, or even as a sweet treat on a chilly Sunday afternoon. Plus, the bars are easier to serve than a traditional cheesecake—no messy slicing or worrying about presentation. Just grab, serve, and enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need and tips for using them:

Graham crackers: The base of any good cheesecake bar! Use plain graham crackers for a classic crust, or try gingersnaps for extra spice.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crust and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
Cream cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. Let it soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
Canned pumpkin: Make sure to grab pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugar and spices.
Eggs: These help bind the cheesecake layer. Use large eggs for best results.
Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar provides sweetness and a hint of molasses richness.
Pumpkin pie spice: This is the secret to that warm, spiced flavor. You can also make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
Sour cream: Adds tanginess and ensures a silky-smooth cheesecake texture.

You can find most of these ingredients at any grocery store, but for the best results, aim for fresh spices and high-quality cream cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with homemade pumpkin puree!

Equipment You’ll Need

Don’t worry—you won’t need any fancy gadgets to make these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

9×13-inch baking pan: The perfect size for evenly baked bars.
Parchment paper: Makes removing the bars from the pan a breeze.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need a couple for the crust and cheesecake layers.
Electric mixer: A hand or stand mixer works well for achieving a smooth cheesecake batter.
Spatula: For spreading the layers evenly.

Don’t have an electric mixer? A sturdy whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick. Just make sure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

Prep your pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Make the crust: Crush 2 cups (about 200g) of graham crackers into fine crumbs. Mix with 1/2 cup (115g) of melted butter and 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces (450g) of softened cream cheese with 1 cup (200g) of sugar until smooth. Add 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1/2 cup (120g) of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Make the pumpkin layer: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup (240g) of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup (100g) of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Fold this mixture into half of the cheesecake batter.
Assemble the layers: Pour the plain cheesecake batter over the crust, spreading it evenly. Gently spoon the pumpkin batter on top and use a knife to swirl the layers for a marbled effect.
Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggles when shaken. Cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Slice and serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly:

Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps.
Don’t overbake! The center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven.
For clean slices, wipe your knife with a damp cloth between cuts.
If your crust seems too crumbly, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter to bind it better.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Try these variations:

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream cheese.
Extra spice: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor twist.
Nutty crust: Mix crushed pecans into the graham cracker crust for added texture.

Feel free to get creative—this recipe is forgiving and fun to customize!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These bars are best served chilled, straight from the fridge. For a fancy touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top or add a dollop of whipped cream.

Planning to save some for later? Here’s how:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

The flavors actually deepen over time, so these bars taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are definitely indulgent, they also have some redeeming qualities:

Rich in vitamin A from the pumpkin, which is great for your skin and eyesight.
Contains calcium and protein from the cream cheese and eggs.

Each bar (depending on size) is approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying treat without being overly heavy. Just be mindful if you have dietary restrictions, as these do contain gluten and dairy.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fall dessert that’s easy to make, visually stunning, and utterly delicious, these Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are the answer. They’re cozy, creamy, and perfect for any autumn occasion. I love how versatile they are—whether I’m serving them at a party or enjoying one with a cup of coffee, they never disappoint.

Give them a try, and let me know how they turn out! Did you add your own twist? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me on social media with your creations. I can’t wait to see your take on this fall favorite!

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the day after they’re made. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

You can substitute gingersnaps, digestive biscuits, or even crushed Oreos for the crust.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?

Don’t overmix the batter, and bake at a low temperature. If cracks do appear, don’t worry—they’ll still taste amazing!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to use two pans to ensure even baking.

What toppings go well with these bars?

Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon are all fantastic options.