Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are the perfect treat for the fall season. These delightful bars combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese. The crust is buttery and provides a satisfying crunch. Each bite melts in your mouth with a creamy pumpkin filling. You won’t be able to resist having another piece.
Making these bars is surprisingly simple and fun. Start by preparing the crust using crushed graham crackers and butter. The filling is a smooth blend of pumpkin, cream cheese, and spices. Pour the filling over the crust and spread it evenly. Bake until the bars are set and the aroma fills your kitchen.
Once cooled, these bars are ready to serve and enjoy. Cut them into squares and watch them disappear quickly. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Your friends and family will be asking for the recipe.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling time)
Serves: 12
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
For the Pumpkin Layer:
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
For the Topping:
1/2 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moist. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Make the Pumpkin Layer: In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Carefully spread this mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Add the Topping: Spread an additional 1/2 cup of whipped topping over the pumpkin layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top if desired.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 280 | Total Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 140mg | Total Carbohydrates: 28g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Protein: 3g