These Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Bars are a tasty treat that capture the flavors of fall! With creamy cheesecake and a hint of warm pumpkin spice, they are perfect for any occasion.
It’s hard not to smile while making these because the swirls look so pretty! I love serving them with a dollop of whipped cream on top—it makes every bite feel like a sweet hug!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create a delicious crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or gluten-free cookies instead. Just make sure to adjust the quantity accordingly!
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is best for a rich texture. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the texture will be slightly different. Just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Fresh pumpkin can be used in place of canned if you prefer. Just cook, cool, and puree the pumpkin until smooth. For a sweeter flavor, add in a bit more sugar.
Spices: If you don’t have ground cloves, feel free to omit it or use a pumpkin spice blend instead. I enjoy adding a pinch of nutmeg for an extra warm aroma!
How Do You Get a Smooth Cream Cheese Mixture?
It’s important to beat your cream cheese well so there are no lumps in your cheesecake layer. Here’s how to achieve that smooth texture:
- Let the cream cheese come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. This softens it and helps it blend easier.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to beat the cream cheese until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything mixes evenly.
- Gradually add sugar, mixing between each addition to maintain a smooth consistency.
Following these steps will help you create the perfect creamy cheesecake filling for your bars! Keep mixing until it’s silky and smooth—you want it to melt in your mouth!
How to Make Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Pumpkin Swirl:
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of preparation time, plus 40 minutes of baking time, and a chilling time of at least 4 hours for the cheesecake to set. So, you’re looking at a total of around 5 hours, but most of that is just letting it chill in the fridge. Perfect for getting your house smelling like fall!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is an important step to ensure your cheesecake bars bake evenly. Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it so your bars release easily later.
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully moistened. Then, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until it’s set. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sugar and mix well, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Finally, blend in the vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated.
4. Pour the Cheesecake Batter:
Pour about two-thirds of the cheesecake batter over the baked crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so it fills the pan nicely.
5. Make the Pumpkin Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix together all pumpkin swirl ingredients: the pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, and flour until everything is well combined and smooth.
6. Add and Swirl the Pumpkin Mixture:
Drop spoonfuls of the pumpkin mixture over the cheesecake layer randomly, creating patches. Then pour the remaining plain cheesecake batter on top, covering it. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the pumpkin mixture into the cheesecake batter gently. This will create a beautiful marbled effect!
7. Bake the Bars:
Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center may still be slightly jiggly—that’s okay! It will firm up as it cools.
8. Cool and Chill:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour. After cooling, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow them to set properly.
9. Slice and Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy, carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into bars of your desired size. You can serve them plain or garnish with whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Bars and all the flavors of fall!
Can I Use a Different Type of Crust?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free cookie crust. Alternatively, you could try a chocolate cookie crust for a different flavor twist—just adjust the measurements accordingly!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version, though the texture might differ slightly. If you want a vegan option, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative made from nuts or tofu.
How Should I Store Leftover Cheesecake Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Pumpkin Swirl?
Yes, feel free to mix it up! You can add chocolate chips for an extra sweet touch or sprinkle in some chopped nuts for crunch. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may affect the overall texture!
