Pumpkin Cheese Bake Bars
Pumpkin Cheese Bake Bars combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with a creamy cheese filling, offering a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or cozy dessert moments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, on low speed, combine the cake mix, 1 egg, melted margarine, and 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice until crumbly.
- Press the mixture onto the bottom of a 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy.
- Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk, then add the remaining 2 eggs, pumpkin, 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Pour the cheese and pumpkin mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until set and lightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Chill in the refrigerator before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, mix equal parts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as a substitute. To save time, you can use a store-bought crust instead of making your own. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free cake mix in place of the yellow cake mix.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them at gatherings alongside desserts like Nana Simpson'S Congo Bars for a delightful variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pumpkin Cheese Bake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To serve, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Cheese Bake Bars contains roughly 583 calories, with 6g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but it should be cooked and pureed to achieve the right consistency. Be sure to measure it out carefully, as the moisture content in fresh pumpkin can vary from canned, which could affect the texture of your bars.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for cream cheese. This will give a similar creamy texture while adding a slightly different flavor profile. Just ensure to adjust the sweetness accordingly, as Greek yogurt can be tangier.
How can I make these bars dairy-free?
To make Pumpkin Cheese Bake Bars dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a plant-based margarine. Additionally, check that your cake mix is dairy-free, as some brands may include milk ingredients. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors without dairy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).