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Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect autumn treat, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with a creamy cheesecake layer. These delightful bars are moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or simply to enjoy at home. With their inviting aroma and delicious taste, these bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, combine the softened butter, pumpkin puree, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix until just combined.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until creamy. Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Then, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer. Finally, spoon the remaining pumpkin batter on top, and gently swirl it with a knife to create a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth before using it in the recipe.
How do I store Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars?
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Are Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars gluten-free?
You can make these bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
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