If you’re craving something creamy, cozy, and impressively swirled, these pumpkin cheesecake bars will absolutely steal the spotlight. With a buttery graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and swirls of pumpkin spice, they’re a dream dessert for autumn lovers everywhere. This recipe turns a classic cheesecake into an easy-to-slice fall dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or just treating yourself to something sweet on a chilly day—these bars are the very best of fall in every bite.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
- Creamy, smooth cheesecake with a fall spice twist
- Gorgeous swirls that make it feel bakery-worthy
- Sturdy enough to slice, soft enough to melt in your mouth
- Crowd-pleasing and easy to make ahead
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 15 graham crackers (about 2+ cups crumbs)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 1/4 cups pumpkin purée
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Three 8-oz blocks of full-fat cream cheese, room temp
- 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs, room temp
How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch pan with foil and lightly grease.
Make the Crust:
- Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs.
- Mix with sugar and melted butter.
- Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake 10–15 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly.
Make the Filling:
- In one bowl, combine pumpkin purée, spices, and flour.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla, sour cream, and salt. Mix gently.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
- Transfer 1 1/2 cups of the cream cheese mixture to the pumpkin mixture and stir until combined.
- Alternate spoonfuls of plain and pumpkin batters over the crust.
- Use a knife to gently swirl, being careful not to disturb the crust.
Bake & Chill:
- Bake for 35–45 minutes until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Refrigerate at least 8 hours before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Swirled Cheesecake Bars
- Use room temp cream cheese for the smoothest filling.
- Don’t overmix the eggs—less air means a creamier texture.
- For clean cuts, chill fully and wipe your knife between slices.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or caramel drizzle for extra flair.
Why I Love Making These for Fall Gatherings
These bars have become my go-to whenever I need a dessert that feels a little extra but doesn’t require a springform pan or water bath. The first time I made them, the swirls turned out so pretty I almost didn’t want to slice them (almost). Now they’re a must-bake every Thanksgiving—and every time, they disappear in record time.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Serve these bars chilled with a mug of coffee, chai, or spiced cider. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a sprinkle of crushed pecans for crunch.
How to Store and Make Ahead
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them—wrap individual bars tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight for a ready-to-go treat. Best made a day ahead to allow the flavors to settle.
FAQs About This Fall Dessert
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, but making your own gives better flavor and structure.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat is best for a creamy texture, but you can try low-fat in a pinch.
Can I skip the swirl?
Sure—but it’s too fun (and pretty) to leave out!
The Swirl of the Season
These pumpkin cheesecake bars are creamy, cozy, and just the right amount of fancy for fall. With their spiced graham cracker crust, silky swirl, and make-ahead convenience, they’re the fall dessert you’ll crave year after year. Bake a batch and watch them disappear—swirl and all.
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Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, spiced fall dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and swirled layers of pumpkin and classic cheesecake. With rich texture and warm flavors, these bars are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or an indulgent fall treat. No water bath needed—just smooth, sliceable, bakery-worthy deliciousness.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
-
15 graham crackers (about 2+ cups crumbs)
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
-
1 1/4 cups pumpkin purée
-
1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
-
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
-
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
-
Three 8 oz blocks full-fat cream cheese, room temp
-
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
-
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
-
1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
-
1/8 tsp salt
-
3 large eggs, room temp
Instructions
Make the Crust:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with foil and lightly grease.
-
Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with sugar and melted butter.
-
Press firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10–15 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly.
Make the Filling:
-
In a small bowl, stir together pumpkin purée, spices, and flour.
-
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
-
Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and salt.
-
Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
-
Transfer 1 1/2 cups of this mixture to the pumpkin bowl and stir until blended.
-
Alternate spoonfuls of plain and pumpkin mixtures onto the crust.
-
Swirl gently with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
Bake & Chill:
-
Bake for 35–45 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
-
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours before slicing.
Notes
Room temperature ingredients ensure a smooth filling.
Avoid overmixing the eggs to prevent air bubbles.
Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean bars.
Optional toppings: whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or crushed pecans.
Can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American