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10 Make-Ahead Desserts for a Stress-Free Holiday

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Gourmandize
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars 10/11

© Elena Veselova/Shutterstock

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin cheesecake bars are a delightful treat, combining the rich creaminess of spiced cheesecake with the warm, spicy crunch of a gingersnap crust. These easy-to-slice bars are perfect for holiday parties, offering all the flavors of classic pumpkin pie in a more portable and convenient form. They’re an easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress at any holiday table!

Ingredients (for 16 bars):

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Topping (optional):

  • Whipped cream or cream cheese frosting
  • Crushed gingersnaps or a sprinkle of cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the gingersnap crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  4. Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 8-10 min., then let cool slightly.
  6. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add the pumpkin purée, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Beat until fully combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  8. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.
  9. Bake for 35-40 min., or until the center is just set and no longer jiggles.
  10. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up completely.
  11. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles.
  12. Garnish with whipped cream, crushed gingersnaps, or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.

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