Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until everything is evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Place the crust in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until just combined.
- Remove the graham cracker crust from the freezer.
- Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Once the cheesecake bars are firm, remove them from the refrigerator.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the bars into squares.
- Garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, or a drizzle of caramel sauce (optional).
- Serve and enjoy.
Notes
For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid a lumpy filling. Do not overmix the filling after adding the whipped topping. Chilling the bars overnight allows them to set completely. These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a chocolatey twist, melt some chocolate and swirl it into the filling before chilling. You can also experiment with different crusts like gingerbread or chocolate graham crackers.
