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Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars

Delightful dessert bars that combine pumpkin and cream cheese atop a buttery crust, perfect for family gatherings and autumn celebrations.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 9 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with almond flour or gluten-free flour.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened Ensure cream cheese is well softened to avoid cracking.
  • 1 cup pure pumpkin puree Do not use pumpkin pie filling.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Method
 

Preheat Your Oven
  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Crust
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
  2. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish.
  3. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until golden.
Make the Filling
  1. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  3. Beat until everything is well combined and creamy.
Combine and Bake
  1. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out evenly.
  2. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set.
Cool and Cut
  1. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least a couple of hours before slicing.
  2. Enjoy with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a scoop of whipped cream!

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.