Caramelized Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Indulge your sweet tooth with our Caramelized Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Irresistible Delight! This easy-to-follow recipe combines a creamy pumpkin layer on a buttery crust, all topped with rich caramel. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights, these bars are sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and learn tips for achieving the best flavor and texture. Treat yourself to this delicious dessert today!

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Ingredients

For the crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons brown sugar

½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the pumpkin cheesecake layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup pumpkin puree

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon allspice

For the caramel topping:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

½ cup heavy cream

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9x9-inch baking pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Make the pumpkin cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the pumpkin puree and sugar, mixing until well combined. Add in the eggs, one at a time, incorporating them fully. Then mix in the vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice until smooth.

Combine and bake: Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door ajar for about 1 hour. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare the caramel topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar. Stir constantly until it melts into a light amber color. Carefully add the butter (it will bubble), stirring until melted and combined. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and a pinch of salt, cooking for another minute or so until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Assemble the bars: Once the cheesecake is set and chilled, cut it into squares or bars. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top of each bar just before serving.

- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours (including cooling and chilling) | Servings: 16 bars

- Presentation Tips: Serve the bars on a decorative platter, drizzled with additional caramel and garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans for added crunch. Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream if desired!