Description
Indulge in the ultimate fall dessert with these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars. A buttery crust, creamy pumpkin filling, and a touch of spice come together for a delicious treat perfect for any autumn gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Beat until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
- Add the Topping:
- Mix chopped pecans with granulated sugar and sprinkle over the pumpkin filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the filling is set and edges are lightly browned.
- Allow to cool completely before lifting out and cutting into squares.
Notes
For added flavor, consider serving with whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes