Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a mixing bowl, then pour in melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust layer. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to set the crust, then remove and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. This helps create a silky cheesecake layer.
- Add sugar to the cream cheese and blend well until the mixture is light and fluffy, with a slight increase in volume.
- Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, blending until combined and fragrant with a warm aroma.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk the pumpkin and eggs together until smooth and slightly foamy. Then fold this mixture gently into the cream cheese batter to incorporate the pumpkin flavor evenly.
- Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly with a spatula to fill all corners of the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-45 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled and firm.
- Use a sharp knife to cut into squares, revealing the layered crust and creamy pumpkin filling with a swirl of cinnamon on top, ready to serve.
Notes
For best results, refrigerate the bars overnight to let flavors meld and texture set fully.