Name: Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; ⅔ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup rolled oats; ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ¼ cup brown sugar

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been searching for that perfect fall treat to impress friends and family, look no further than these Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel. This dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the cozy, spiced depth of pumpkin puree, all topped with a buttery, crumbly streusel that adds just the right crunch. Each bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture, creating a delightful experience that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple weekend indulgence, these bars are sure to become your new seasonal favorite.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the luscious texture and layered flavors of the Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel. From the crunchy graham cracker crust to the creamy cheesecake base and the irresistible streusel on top, every component shines through.

Graham cracker crumbs: Forms a sturdy and flavorful base that adds a slight sweetness and crunch.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering the other layers.
Unsalted butter, melted and cold cubed: Provides richness and binds ingredients for the crust and streusel topping.
Cream cheese, softened: Creates the signature creamy, tangy cheesecake layer that’s essential to this dessert.
Canned pumpkin puree: Adds that unmistakable fall flavor and natural moisture to the cheesecake filling.
Brown sugar, packed: Brings caramel notes and depth both in the cheesecake filling and streusel topping.
Eggs: Help bind the cheesecake filling while keeping it rich and smooth.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm and inviting aroma.
Pumpkin pie spice: The perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and spices to bring the pumpkin to life.
All-purpose flour: Essential for structure, especially in the streusel topping.
Rolled oats: Add texture and heartiness to the streusel, giving it a rustic touch.

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan. This crust will provide a buttery, crunchy foundation that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and velvety. Then add in the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix everything until you have a perfectly blended, creamy mixture. Pour this luscious filling over your crust, smoothing it out so every bar promises a rich bite of pumpkin-infused cheesecake.

Step 3: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Now, for the best part – the streusel topping. Combine all-purpose flour, rolled oats, cold cubed butter, and brown sugar in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly textured. This streusel topping is what gives the bars their irresistible crunch and buttery sweetness. Sprinkle it generously over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Bake and Chill

Bake your masterpiece for about 45 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. Let the bars cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate them for at least two hours. This chilling time is crucial—it helps the cheesecake layer firm up, allowing for perfect slices every time.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel

Garnishes

To elevate the experience, consider topping each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts can add an exciting crunch that complements the streusel perfectly. A light drizzle of caramel sauce can also bring an indulgent finishing touch that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and cream cheese flavors.

Side Dishes

These bars are quite rich on their own, so lighter accompaniments work well. Serve them alongside a hot cup of spiced chai or pumpkin latte to enhance those cozy fall vibes. A fresh fruit salad featuring tart cranberries or oranges can also provide a refreshing balance to the dessert’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel at a party, consider cutting them into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a festive platter with fall-themed decorations like mini pumpkins or cinnamon sticks. Another fun idea is to layer small pieces in clear dessert cups with whipped cream for an elegant individual presentation that lets every guest indulge in their own portion of fall magic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and cut, store your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and moist for up to 5 days, making them an excellent option for prepping ahead or enjoying as a sweet snack throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to make these bars well in advance, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will maintain their taste and texture for up to 3 months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel taste best chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer a slightly warm treat, place a bar in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as it can alter the texture of the cheesecake layer.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely, but keep in mind fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed until smooth before using. The texture and moisture content might vary slightly, so you may want to strain any excess water to avoid a watery filling.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars before slicing?

Yes, chilling the bars for at least two hours solidifies the cheesecake filling and makes slicing much easier. Cutting them straight after baking might result in messy pieces that don’t hold their shape well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the graham cracker crumbs and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free graham crackers and gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

What can I substitute for pumpkin pie spice?

If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves or allspice in equal parts to create your own blend. This will give you that warm, cozy spice profile the recipe calls for.

How do I get a crumbly streusel topping?

The key is using cold, cubed butter and mixing the topping ingredients just until crumbly. Overworking it can melt the butter and create a doughy topping instead of a light, crunchy streusel.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel that makes every bite feel like a celebration of fall flavors and comforting textures. Once you make these bars, they’ll likely become a cherished part of your seasonal baking routine. So grab your ingredients, don that apron, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting smells of autumn. You won’t regret it!

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 15 reviews

Author: Simon
Total Time: 2 hours 65 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel topping combine a rich, creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling with a buttery graham cracker crust and a crunchy oat streusel. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday treats, these bars offer a delicious blend of autumn flavors in every bite.

Instructions

Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the bars.
Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly, then press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and smooth. Pour this filling evenly over the crust layer in the pan.
Make the streusel topping: In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rolled oats, cold cubed butter, and brown sugar. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this streusel evenly over the pumpkin cheesecake filling.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
Chill and serve: After cooling, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to fully set. Once chilled, cut into bars and serve. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture.
Make sure the butter for the streusel is very cold to achieve a crumbly topping.
For easier slicing, refrigerate the bars overnight before cutting.
Customize the spice blend by adding cinnamon or nutmeg as preferred.
These bars keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American