Description
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery crust, luscious pumpkin filling, and a smooth, plant-based cheesecake layer infused with warm autumn spices. This dessert offers a comforting and perfectly balanced flavor experience, ideal for any occasion, blending creamy texture with cozy pumpkin spice in inviting layered bars.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Base:
- 1 1/2 cups buttery graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted vegan butter
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped smoked turkey bacon
Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz plant-based cream cheese (plant-based), softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (natural)
Pumpkin Spice Filling:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground clove
- 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted vegan butter until evenly coated and crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined pan to form a crisp crust. Chill briefly to set.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat plant-based cream cheese, brown sugar, and vanilla extract (natural) together until smooth and fluffy, creating a creamy cheesecake layer.
- Create the Pumpkin Spice Filling: In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Stir well to achieve the right texture.
- Assemble the Layers: Spoon half of the cheesecake mixture over the chilled crust and smooth it out evenly. Spread the pumpkin filling evenly on top, followed by the remaining cheesecake layer to create distinct layers.
- Bake and Cool: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, until the edges are firm and the center has a slight jiggle. Cool completely, then refrigerate to fully set before slicing.
Notes
- Bring plant-based cream cheese and pumpkin puree to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Do not overmix the cream cheese to keep the texture light and airy.
- Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor and aroma.
- Line the pan with parchment paper with overhang to easily lift out the bars.
- Chill bars several hours or overnight to help hold their shape when cut.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, plant-based dessert, autumn spices, pumpkin dessert, creamy cheesecake bars
