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No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are the epitome of fall indulgence, combining the velvety richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin. This dessert is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, requiring no oven—just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience while it chills to perfection.
The crust, made from buttery graham cracker crumbs, provides the perfect foundation for the creamy, tangy cheesecake filling. Real pumpkin puree, blended with cozy spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, adds an irresistible seasonal touch. Swirled together, these layers create a visually stunning marbled effect, ensuring every bite is a blend of textures and flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars promise to impress with their luscious creaminess, balanced sweetness, and undeniable autumn charm. Perfect for pumpkin lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike!
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional for sweeter crust)
Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
Pumpkin Layer:
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar (if using) in a medium bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch (or 9×9-inch for thinner bars) pan lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add the vanilla extract and gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully combined.
Prepare the Pumpkin Layer:
In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth.
Assemble the Bars:
Spread half of the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust.
Gently dollop the pumpkin mixture over the cheesecake layer. Add the remaining cheesecake mixture in dollops on top.
Use a butter knife or skewer to swirl the layers together gently, creating a marbled effect.
Chill:
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
Serve:
Once set, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Number of Servings
12–16 bars (depending on size)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
None (no baking required)
Chill Time
4–6 hours (or overnight)
Total Time
~4 hours 20 minutes
Tips, Techniques, and Recommendations
Crust Tips:
For a crunchier crust, use digestive biscuits or gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers.
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the crust for an extra layer of flavor.
Filling Consistency:
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps in the filling.
Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks is crucial to achieving a light and airy cheesecake texture.
Pumpkin Layer Enhancements:
For a richer pumpkin flavor, roast fresh pumpkin puree to intensify its natural sweetness.
Adjust the sweetness of the pumpkin layer by tasting as you mix.
Swirling Technique:
Avoid over-swiring to maintain the distinct marbled effect. A few gentle swirls are sufficient.
Storage:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Serving Ideas:
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or crushed pecans for added flair.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars for a decadent touch.
Enjoy these creamy, spiced, and effortlessly elegant No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars—the perfect treat for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations. With their rich flavors, velvety texture, and beautiful marbled design, they’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust, tangy cheesecake filling, and warm pumpkin spice makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging solo, these bars bring the cozy essence of autumn to your table.