Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars: A Delicious Fall Treat

Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars are the ultimate indulgence for pumpkin lovers. Combining the rich, spiced flavor of pumpkin with a creamy, tangy cream cheese swirl, these bars are a hit at fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or as an everyday treat. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this dessert is the perfect addition to your autumn recipe collection.

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Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars

• Perfect for Fall: Features classic autumn flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin.
• Rich and Creamy: The cream cheese swirl adds a decadent texture and tangy contrast.
• Easy to Make: A one-bowl base and simple layering make this a stress-free dessert.

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Ingredients for Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars

To make these bars, you’ll need the following:

Pumpkin Layer:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger
• A pinch of salt

Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Pumpkin Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt). Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
4. Layer and Swirl: Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer. Use a knife to swirl the two layers together for a marbled effect.
5. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

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Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the cream cheese mixture blend smoothly.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bars light.
3. Experiment with Add-Ins: Add chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or a sprinkle of sea salt for variation.
4. Store Properly: Keep the bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled for a firm texture or slightly warmed for a softer bite.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a pumpkin spice latte.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

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Why Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars Are a Fall Favorite

These bars balance the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the luscious creaminess of the cream cheese swirl. The result? A dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether for potlucks, family dinners, or quiet evenings at home, Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars never fail to impress.

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Internal and Outbound Links

• Internal Links: Explore other pumpkin recipes like Pumpkin Melt Bread and Pumpkin Spice Muffins.
• Outbound Links: For tips on baking with cream cheese, visit The Kitchn’s Guide to Cream Cheese Desserts.