Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves crisp and turn to shades of gold, I find myself craving the warmth of a kitchen filled with the spices of fall. There’s something magical about combining creamy pumpkin puree and velvety cream cheese into a dessert that feels like a big hug—enter my Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars. Not only do they feature a buttery graham cracker crust that crumbles delightfully, but they also come together in a snap, making them perfect for gatherings with friends and family. These bars are a wonderful twist on traditional pumpkin pie, offering a rich, dreamy experience that invites everyone to indulge. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a thrilling journey this autumn? Why are these bars a must-try? Effortless Delight: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars without any hassle. Autumn Bliss: The spiced pumpkin filling paired with a buttery crust creates the ultimate fall treat that will have your house smelling heavenly. Versatile Options: Customize your bars with added toppings like caramel drizzle or even chocolate chips for a twist that enhances flavors. Perfect for Gatherings: These bars are an impressive dessert that’s sure to delight your guests during any autumn gathering, making them a surefire hit! Make Ahead: Prepare them a day in advance to allow flavors to meld for an even more satisfying dessert experience. Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, just like with my delicious Blueberry Cream Cake, or serve with whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence! Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars Ingredients For the Filling 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree – Provides the base flavor and moisture; use canned or homemade for flexibility. 1/2 cup cream cheese – Adds richness and creaminess to the filling; mascarpone can be used for a luxe twist. 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling; brown sugar will deepen the flavor profile. 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. 2 eggs – Provide structure and stability to the creamy filling. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts overall flavor with delightful warmth. 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances the fall flavor profile; add nutmeg for extra warmth. For the Crust 8 oz graham cracker crumbs – Forms the base for the bars; crushed cookies can add a unique flavor twist. 1 cup unsalted butter (melted) – Binds the crust together; coconut oil is a suitable dairy-free substitute. For the Topping 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness to the finishing layer, making the bars visually appealing. These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are a delightful addition to your autumn gatherings, perfect for showcasing in the kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust. While the oven warms up, you can prepare your baking dish by greasing it lightly, ensuring easy removal of your delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars once they are baked. Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and resembles wet sand. This process should take about 2-3 minutes. The combination of the buttery goodness and sweet crumbs will form the foundation for your bars, creating a rich base layer. Step 3: Form the Crust Transfer the graham cracker mixture into the greased baking dish. Using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers, press the mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of the dish. Aim for a smooth and compact crust that is about 1/4 inch thick. Bake the crust in the oven for 10 minutes until it’s lightly set and fragrant, then remove it to cool slightly. Step 4: Mix the Filling In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps—this takes about 2 minutes. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and creamy, with a vibrant pumpkin hue, making this filling irresistibly inviting for your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars. Step 5: Pour and Spread the Filling Once your filling is well mixed, pour it over the cooled graham cracker crust. Using a spatula, gently spread the filling evenly across the surface, making sure it reaches the edges of the crust. This layering creates a luscious pumpkin filling that contrasts beautifully with the buttery base, ensuring every bite is delightful. Step 6: Bake the Bars Place the assembled dish back into the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for the filling to be set and slightly pulling away from the edges—this signals that your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are ready to come out. The aroma of pumpkin and spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Step 7: Cool and Chill Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, place them in the refrigerator for at least two hours or until completely chilled. Chilling isn’t just for texture—it allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, enhancing the overall taste of your bars. Step 8: Garnish and Serve When ready to serve, dust the top of your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Using a sharp knife, cut them into square bars for an enticing presentation. These bars are wonderful served chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making them a perfect treat for your autumn gatherings. Helpful Tricks for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars Beat It Smoothly: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing; this prevents lumps in your filling for flawlessly creamy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars. Measure Wisely: When measuring pumpkin puree, pack it gently into the cup. This guarantees the right consistency, essential for a smooth filling. Chill for Perfection: Always cool the bars completely before slicing. This step helps achieve clean cuts while letting flavors enhance—for the best texture experience. Check for Doneness: To avoid soggy bars, always bake until the filling is set and slightly pulls away from the edges. A toothpick should come out mostly clean when inserted. Dust Right Before Serving: For a picture-perfect presentation, dust the powdered sugar over the bars just before serving, keeping their look fresh and inviting! Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic fall season! You can prepare the buttery graham cracker crust up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness. The creamy pumpkin filling can be made the night before (up to 24 hours) and kept refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. When you want to finish the bars, just pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and follow the baking instructions. This simple prep allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are just as delicious and ready to impress when you serve them! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars Fridge: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain their fresh flavors and creamy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thawing: To enjoy frozen Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars, simply transfer them to the fridge and let them thaw overnight for the best texture. Serving After Storage: Chill for a bit after thawing, then dust with powdered sugar before serving for a delightful presentation! Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars Variations Feel free to get creative with your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars, adding personal touches that suit your taste! Sweet Potato: Swap pumpkin for sweet potato puree for a unique flavor profile and comforting texture. Chocolate Chips: Fold in chocolate chips into the filling for added richness and a delightful contrast to the spiced pumpkin. Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for a crunchy texture that beautifully complements the creamy filling. Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or a non-dairy spread, and use coconut oil in the crust for a delicious dairy-free option. Seasonal Spices: Enhance flavor with cloves or allspice in addition to cinnamon; this will create a warm, aromatic experience perfect for autumn. Caramel Drizzle: Top the bars with a drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel for an extra indulgent treat, reminiscent of a caramel pumpkin latte. Fruit Topping: Serve with a dollop of spiced apple compote or cranberry sauce for a refreshing finish that cuts through the creaminess. These variations will keep your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars fresh and exciting every time they make an appearance—just as you might do with other seasonal favorites like my Blueberry Cream Cake or a rich Hot Italian Cheese dish to share! What to Serve with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars As the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin wafts through your home, complement these dreamy bars with delightful pairings that elevate your autumn experience. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, fluffy texture that perfectly balances the creaminess of the bars. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast, enhancing the pumpkin’s flavors while adding creaminess to every bite. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the bars brings an indulgent sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the spiced filling. Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside for a cozy beverage that resonates with the fall season and complements the pumpkin notes. Chai Tea: The earthy spices of chai tea not only warm you up but also enhance the flavor profile of the pumpkin, making for a comforting pairing. Gingersnap Cookies: These crunchy, spicy cookies offer a textural contrast that pairs wonderfully with the soft, creamy bars for a delightful bite. Pecan Pie Bites: Serve these bites as mini desserts alongside for a flavorful competition, featuring rich flavors that celebrate autumn’s bounty. Cranberry Sauce: Add a dollop of tart cranberry sauce for a burst of freshness and acidity, balancing the sweet richness of the bars. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A cozy cup of pumpkin spice latte not only highlights the seasonal flavors but also provides a warm, comforting drink option for indulging. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin puree should I use? Absolutely! You can use either canned or homemade pumpkin puree. Canned pumpkin is convenient, but if you’re up for it, homemade puree gives a fresher flavor. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling to control the sweetness and spices in your bars. How do I store Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars? I recommend storing the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, they stay fresh and maintain their delicious creamy texture. If you find you have leftovers, these bars are still delightful after a few days! Can I freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars? Very! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just move them to the fridge to thaw overnight for the best results. What should I do if my filling is too runny? If you find the filling is too runny before baking, it might need more thickening agents. You can try adding an extra egg or a tablespoon of cornstarch combined with a bit of pumpkin puree. Mix thoroughly again and pour it over your crust. Remember, bake until the edges set and pull away from the pan to achieve that perfect texture! Is this recipe safe for pets or individuals with allergies? While Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are delightful for humans, I don’t recommend them for pets. The cream cheese and sugar can be harmful to dogs and cats. Additionally, if you’re catering to allergies, be mindful of those with dairy or gluten sensitivities—consider using dairy-free cream cheese and alternative crust options to ensure everyone can enjoy these bars! Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars for Cozy Autumn Gatherings Indulge in Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars, a delightful autumn dessert that combines pumpkin puree and cream cheese for a cozy experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1.5 cups pumpkin puree Use canned or homemade.0.5 cups cream cheese Mascarpone can be used for a twist.0.5 cups granulated sugar Brown sugar will deepen the flavor.0.25 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.2 large eggs Provide structure to the filling.1 teaspoon vanilla extract Boosts overall flavor.0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon Add nutmeg for extra warmth.For the Crust8 oz graham cracker crumbs Crushed cookies can add flavor.1 cup unsalted butter (melted) Coconut oil is a dairy-free substitute.For the Topping0.5 cups powdered sugar Adds sweetness to the finish. Equipment Mixing BowlBaking dishSpatulameasuring cupsmeasuring spoons Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish.Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl until moistened.Press the mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes.Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla until creamy.Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.Bake for 40 minutes until the filling is set and pulling away from the edges.Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.Dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving and cut into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg NotesThese bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
