Spooky Goodness: Haunted Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Halloween is the perfect time to embrace the eerie with a touch of sweet comfort. These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are more than just a festive dessert; they’re a nostalgic swirl of pumpkin spice and creamy richness, topped with a hint of graham cracker crumble. As you prep them, the warm aroma of cinnamon and ginger will fill the air, setting the scene for a cozy Halloween gathering.

What makes this recipe truly special is its unassuming sophistication. Inspired by the quiet thrill of carving pumpkins, each bite offers a delicate balance of smooth cheesecake and spicy pumpkin tones. It’s a dessert that whispers tales of haunted nights and pumpkin patches, perfect for serving up spooky delight with every slice.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are a layered dessert featuring a graham cracker crust topped with a creamy pumpkin-spiced cheesecake filling. The bars are baked until set and have a smooth, velvety texture, often garnished with a graham cracker crumble for added crunch and flavor.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs about 10 full crackers crushed finely
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
• 3 8 oz packages cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup heavy cream optional, for a richer texture

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
2. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking pan, creating an even crust layer. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove and set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any lumps.
4. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to the cream cheese mixture. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5. Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a flat surface.
6. Bake the cheesecake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are lightly set and the center slightly jiggles when shaken. The top may turn a light golden color.
7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled and firm.
8. Once cooled and chilled, slice into squares. Optional: dust with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or whipped cream before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, let the cheesecake chill overnight. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra presentation.

This Halloween treat is a heartfelt reminder of the simple joys of seasonal baking. Every bite conjures a flickering jack-o’-lantern and that comforting scent of cinnamon and pumpkin. It’s not just a dessert; it’s part of the spooky season’s charm.

Whether you’re hosting a haunted dinner or just craving a cozy evening at home, these Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars will add a touch of festive magic. The combination of flavors and textures makes them stand out among typical holiday sweets. It’s a small batch of spooky delights worth every bite, year after year.