Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

Delight in the flavors of autumn with these Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel. This recipe combines creamy pumpkin cheesecake with a crunchy streusel topping, making it an ideal treat for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or simply as a cozy dessert at home. The luscious blend of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a rich texture that will make these bars unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these bars are sure to impress your guests.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – The combination of pumpkin and spices delivers a warm, comforting flavor that embodies the essence of fall.
• Make Ahead Option – These bars can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
• Versatile Dessert – Serve them as is or add whipped cream and nuts for an extra special touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Pastry cutter (optional)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8-inch baking pan – Perfect size for evenly baking your cheesecake bars for optimal texture.
• Electric mixer or whisk – Ensures your cream cheese mixes smoothly without lumps, which is crucial for creamy cheesecake.
• Parchment paper – Makes removing the bars from the pan easy and helps with cleanup.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• &frac32; cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Streusel Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ cup brown sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl:
* Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
* Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a solid crust layer.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl:
* Beat cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer or whisk.
* Add canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice.
* Mix until well combined and pour over the crust in the pan.

Step 4: Create the Streusel Topping

In another bowl:
* Combine flour, rolled oats, cold butter, and brown sugar.
* Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until crumbly.
* Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer in your pan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the center is set. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. Once chilled, slice into bars and serve!

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

Serving pumpkin cheesecake bars with streusel is a delightful way to share this creamy dessert. These bars can be enjoyed in various settings, making them versatile for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

For Gatherings

• With Whipped Topping: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and visual appeal.
• Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle enhances the flavor and adds an indulgent touch.

For Coffee Lovers

• Pair with Coffee: Serve these bars alongside a cup of hot coffee or espresso for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Accompany with Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced tea complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.

For Seasonal Celebrations

• At Thanksgiving Dinners: These bars make a perfect dessert option alongside traditional pies.
• During Fall Gatherings: Offer them at potlucks or fall-themed parties to celebrate the season.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

Perfecting pumpkin cheesecake bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Mix just until combined to keep the texture creamy and avoid incorporating too much air.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours after baking to help them set and enhance flavor.
• Cut with a Warm Knife: Run your knife under hot water before cutting for cleaner edges on each bar.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin cheesecake bars elevates your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this sweet treat well.

1. Crisp Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheesecake bars.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a savory contrast and bring out autumn flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory element that pairs nicely with dessert.
4. Fruit Compote: A fresh fruit compote, like apple or cranberry, adds sweetness and acidity.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that everyone loves.
6. Nutty Granola: Sprinkling granola over the bars adds crunch and enhances texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy filling.
• Skimping on the Crust: Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan. A loose crust can crumble and break apart when slicing.
• Overmixing the Filling: Mix just until combined to avoid adding too much air. Overmixing can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating. This helps set the filling and enhances flavor.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents sticking and keeps your bars intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a pan on low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-cooked and drained of excess moisture for the best texture.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The center should be set but may have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

What toppings work well with Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel?

Consider topping them with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel are a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin and crunchy topping, making them perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding spices or using different nuts in the streusel. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 16 bars 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel. This recipe features a creamy pumpkin cheesecake layer atop a buttery graham cracker crust, all generously topped with a crunchy streusel that adds texture and sweetness. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these bars combine the nostalgic essence of pumpkin spice with the rich creaminess of cheesecake, making them an unforgettable dessert option. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, you’ll want to make these bars your go-to fall treat!

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Ingredients

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• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1.5 cups brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.25 cup rolled oats
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter; press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice; mix until well combined and pour over the crust.
4. In another bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, cold cubed butter, and brown sugar; mix until crumbly and sprinkle over the cheesecake layer.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the center is set; cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours before slicing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 64g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg