There’s something magical about the flavor of pumpkin when autumn arrives. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply cozying up at home, these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars offer the perfect mix of sweet, spiced pumpkin and creamy richness. Ideal for all your fall dessert ideas, this easy recipe is sure to impress guests and satisfy seasonal cravings.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars
These bars combine the best of both worlds: the moist, spiced goodness of pumpkin cake and the smooth tang of a cheesecake swirl. They’re easy to slice, serve, and store—making them the perfect option for potlucks, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or a sweet weekend treat with coffee.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars
Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need for both the pumpkin batter and the cream cheese layer.
For the Pumpkin Batter:
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1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
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¾ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
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3 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon ground ginger
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¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional for extra spice)
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
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8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 egg yolk
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To prepare this recipe with ease, have the following tools on hand:
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Mixing bowls (at least two)
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Hand mixer or stand mixer
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Rubber spatula
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9×13-inch baking pan
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Parchment paper or nonstick spray
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Toothpick or knife (for swirling and doneness check)
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Cooling rack
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create your perfect batch of Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This will help the bars come out easily once baked.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
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Pumpkin puree
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Granulated sugar
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Brown sugar
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Vegetable oil
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Eggs
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Vanilla extract
Whisk or beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
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All-purpose flour
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Baking soda
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Baking powder
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Salt
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Cinnamon
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Nutmeg
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Ginger
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Cloves
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until no dry streaks remain—do not overmix.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour the pumpkin batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the top of the pumpkin batter. Then, take a knife or toothpick and gently swirl the cream cheese into the pumpkin base. Create a beautiful marbled effect, but avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 28–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a little moisture is okay, but it shouldn’t be wet).
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 6: Chill and Slice
For best texture and flavor, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour before slicing. This also helps firm up the cream cheese layer, making for cleaner cuts.
Cut into squares or rectangles and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Helpful Tips for Success
Make these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars even more delicious with these expert tips:
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Let your cream cheese, eggs, and pumpkin puree come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures smooth blending and even baking.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense or rubbery bars instead of that light, tender texture.
3. Swirl Strategically
Use a toothpick or butter knife to gently swirl the cream cheese without fully blending it. You want those beautiful white-and-orange marbled layers.
4. Chill for Clean Slices
Chilling not only enhances the flavor—it also makes slicing much easier. Use a clean, sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for professional-looking bars.
5. Make Ahead Friendly
These bars store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for fall dessert ideas that go beyond the classic pumpkin pie? Here’s how to enjoy these bars:
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Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
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Pair with a hot cup of chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or caramel coffee.
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Plate them with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant dessert tray.
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Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the batter for a nutty crunch.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per bar, assuming 12 servings)
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Calories: 260
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Total Fat: 15g
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Saturated Fat: 5g
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Cholesterol: 45mg
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Sugar: 18g
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Protein: 3g
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Fiber: 1g
Note: Values may vary based on exact brands and portion sizes.
Why These Bars Are Perfect for Fall Dessert Ideas
If you’re on the hunt for easy, crowd-pleasing fall dessert ideas, these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars hit the sweet spot. They bring together warm spices, comforting textures, and a hint of indulgence—everything that defines autumn baking.
They’re also portable, sliceable, and make-ahead-friendly, which is perfect for everything from family dinners to Halloween parties to Thanksgiving feasts.
Plus, they stand out in a sea of pies and cookies—offering something familiar yet unique. You don’t need any special skills to bake them, and the results are always stunning.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars are the ultimate treat when you’re craving fall dessert ideas that are easy yet elegant. With their creamy swirl and warmly spiced pumpkin base, they embody everything we love about autumn flavors.