When Thanksgiving meets cheesecake, magic happens.
These Thanksgiving Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are creamy, spiced, and perfectly portioned for a cozy holiday table.
Think of it as your favorite pumpkin pie but silkier, sweeter, and easier to share.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
These bars combine all the fall flavors you crave pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla in one handheld dessert.
- Smooth pumpkin cheesecake filling
- Crunchy graham cracker crust
- Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings
- Easy to slice, store, and serve
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Optional Topping
- Whipped cream or caramel drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Combine crumbs, sugar, and butter. Press into a lined 9×9 pan. Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Layer
Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy. Add pumpkin and spices; mix until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
Pour pumpkin mixture over crust. Bake 35–40 minutes or until set.
The Two-Texture Thanksgiving Bite
The secret to these cheesecake bars is contrast that first bite of creamy pumpkin spice filling meets the buttery, slightly crisp crust. It’s a texture story that feels luxurious but comforting, like a pumpkin pie met a New York cheesecake at a holiday party.
The Make-Ahead Dessert Strategy
These bars actually taste better the next day!
Make them the day before Thanksgiving, cover tightly, and chill overnight. The flavors deepen, and slicing becomes cleaner. Perfect for stress-free hosting.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Fridge: Up to 4 days, tightly wrapped
- Freezer: Up to 2 months thaw overnight in fridge
- Serve cold: They hold shape beautifully
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure it’s blended smooth and drained of excess moisture.
2. Can I make this crust with gingersnaps?
Absolutely it adds a deeper spice flavor!
3. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The center should jiggle slightly; it will firm up as it cools.
Conclusion
Your Thanksgiving dessert table just got a creamy upgrade.
These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars deliver festive flavor in every silky bite easy to make, serve, and share.
✨ Try it this week and tag @EatTreatsRecipes on Pinterest or Instagram because comfort should always be this delicious!
🍁 More Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas
- Cozy mornings call for our Thanksgiving Apple Cinnamon Roll warm and gooey perfection.
- Need a quick party dip? Try the Thanksgiving Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip.
- For another showstopper dessert, bake our Thanksgiving Apple Crumble Cheesecake.
- Love no-bake desserts? Don’t miss the Strawberry Banana Pudding Dream Recipe.
- Add a fun twist with our Cinnamon Roll Cookies.
- Explore even more cozy ideas in our Easy Fall Dessert Recipes collection.