Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars
I made these for a church function once and they turned out to be a big hit. There was barely a crumb left on the platter after everyone dug in. I love this dessert because it tastes light, smooth, and nutty.
I made these for a church function once and they turned out to be a big hit. There was barely a crumb left on the platter after everyone dug in. I love this dessert because it tastes light, smooth, and nutty.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 3/4 cup sugar divided
- 3 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 3/4 cup cold butter cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin
- 1-1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese softened, cubed
- Carbohydrate 8.325302083603 g
- Cholesterol 81.8875000129043 mg
- Fat 9.29453750624979 g
- Fiber 0.862316690311341 g
- Protein 3.06393166689372 g
- Saturated Fat 4.33556008653507 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (39g)
- Sodium 1768.42729668023 mg
- Sugar 7.46298539329166 g
- Trans Fat 0.794339625405583 g
- Calories 126 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a small bowl, mix flour, 1/4 cup sugar and brown sugar; cut in butter until crumbly.
- Stir in oats and pecans. Reserve 1 cup for topping.
- Press remaining crumb mixture onto bottom of a greased 13x9-in. baking pan.
- Bake 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, spices and remaining sugar until smooth.
- Beat in pumpkin and vanilla.
- Add eggs; beat on low speed just until blended.
- Pour over warm crust; sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture.
- Bake 20-25 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean and filling is set.
- Cool on a wire rack.
- Cut into bars.
- Serve within 2 hours or refrigerate, covered.
My Go-To Dessert: Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars
As a busy mom of three, finding time to bake is a luxury, but when I do, it's usually for a special occasion. These Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars are my absolute go-to dessert. They're incredibly easy to make, yet they taste sophisticated and delicious. I first made them for a church potluck, and let me tell you, they were a huge hit! Everyone raved about the perfectly balanced flavors – the creamy, subtly spiced pumpkin filling nestled in a buttery, crunchy oat crust. There wasn't a crumb left! The best part? They're surprisingly simple to prepare, even on a weeknight. The recipe is straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available at any grocery store. This dessert is a lifesaver for me, especially during the busy holiday season when I need a quick and impressive treat to bring to gatherings.
The secret to these bars' incredible flavor lies in the combination of spices. The warm notes of cinnamon and allspice perfectly complement the sweetness of the pumpkin and cream cheese. The addition of cardamom adds a subtle complexity that elevates the dessert to another level. I use old-fashioned oats in the crust for added texture, and the chopped pecans provide a delightful crunch. The crumb topping is my favorite part; it’s so easy to make and adds a wonderful contrast to the smooth, creamy filling. It's a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
Beyond the Potluck: These bars aren't just for church potlucks or holidays. They're perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. They're also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them to your liking. Want a richer flavor? Add a touch of maple syrup to the filling. Prefer a different nut? Swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different spices like ginger or nutmeg. The possibilities are endless!
Making Memories, One Bar at a Time: Baking these bars isn't just about creating a delicious dessert; it's about making memories. The aroma of pumpkin and spices filling the kitchen always brings a sense of warmth and comfort. The act of baking itself is therapeutic, a chance to slow down and focus on something enjoyable. And of course, the happy faces of those who get to enjoy the final product are the best reward. So, whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete novice, I highly recommend giving these Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bars a try. They're guaranteed to become a family favorite, just as they have for mine.
Tips and Tricks for Baking Success:
- Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before you start mixing the filling. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the filling tough. Mix the filling ingredients just until they are combined.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting and serving. This will help prevent them from crumbling.
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy!
