Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

Amazing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With layers of creamy pumpkin cheesecake on a rich walnut crust, these bars offer a unique combination of flavors that will impress your guests. They are great for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. The easy streusel topping adds a delicious crunch, making these bars a standout dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin spice and cream cheese creates an irresistible taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip these bars up without any hassle.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into 16 pieces, these bars are ideal for parties or family gatherings.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them at any time of year, whether it’s a holiday celebration or an everyday treat.
• Nutritious Twist: The use of walnuts and oats adds a healthy crunch while elevating the flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (8×8-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy 8×8-inch baking dish helps achieve even baking and perfect portion sizes.
• Electric mixer: This tool simplifies mixing cream cheese and sugar, ensuring a smooth texture for your cheesecake layers.

Ingredients

Amazing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars — two layers of delicious cheesecake on a rich cinnamon almond walnut crust all topped with an easy streusel.

For the Walnut Crust

• 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
• 1 cup almond flour, almond meal
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup salted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layers

• 6 oz 100% pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup + 2 T. (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 8 oz cream cheese, room temp.
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Streusel Topping

• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1/2 cup flour
• 6 T. salted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Walnut Crust

Mix the walnut crust ingredients together in a bowl until well combined:
1. Combine walnuts, almond flour, white sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
2. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl:
1. Mix room temperature cream cheese with white sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Carefully remove 1 1/2 cups of this mixture and pour it over the walnut crust, smoothing it out evenly.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Flavor

To the remaining cream cheese mixture:
1. Stir in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice until fully incorporated.
2. Carefully spoon this orange mixture over the white cheesecake layer without mixing.

Step 5: Prepare Streusel Topping

Blend streusel ingredients together:
1. In a separate bowl, mix sugars, oats, flour, softened butter, and vanilla until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle this mixture over the pumpkin cheesecake layer evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until set.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once done baking:
1. Allow to cool slightly at room temperature.
2. Place in fridge or freezer to chill for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

These delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any gathering or as a sweet treat at home. Here are some creative ideas on how to serve them.

Pair with Whipped Coconut Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a light and creamy contrast that enhances the pumpkin flavor.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Accompany the bars with slices of fresh apples or pears. Their crispness balances the rich cheesecake nicely.

Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a creamy texture and complements the spices in the bars.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• For an indulgent touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars just before serving. It creates a deliciously sweet topping.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and visual appeal, enhancing both texture and flavor.

Enjoy with Hot Beverage

• Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea to warm up your taste buds and elevate the dessert experience.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

To create stunning Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter that incorporates easily.

• Don’t overmix – Mix the cheesecake batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your bars while baking.

• Chill before cutting – Allowing the bars to chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours helps them set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares.

• Check doneness carefully – Bake until the edges are firm but the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools.

• Customize spices – Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference. Adding nutmeg or cloves can enhance the fall flavors.

• Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Apple Crisp – A warm apple crisp adds sweetness and a cozy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cheesecake bars.

2. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the bars, refreshing your palate between bites.

3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts add a savory touch that works well as a side.

4. Cranberry Sauce – A tart cranberry sauce can provide a zesty contrast, enhancing the overall flavor experience of dessert.

5. Pumpkin Soup – Start off your meal with a warm pumpkin soup that echoes the flavors in your dessert, creating a thematic dining experience.

6. Chocolate Chip Cookies – For an extra sweet treat, serve chocolate chip cookies alongside for those who crave more than one dessert option.

7. Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses can offer salty notes that beautifully balance out the sweetness of cheesecake bars.

8. Chai Spiced Nuts – A bowl of chai-spiced nuts provides crunch and warmth, making it an ideal snack alongside your pumpkin treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking pumpkin cheesecake bars can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cream cheese should be at room temperature for a smooth mixture. Take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before use.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of the bars after baking, preventing any mess.

• Overmixing the cheesecake batter: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air. Overmixed batter can lead to cracks in your cheesecake.

• Not letting the bars cool properly: Cooling is essential. Allow the bars to cool slightly before chilling in the fridge or freezer for at least 2 hours for better texture.

• Ignoring the bake time: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness around 60 minutes, and adjust accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covering to retain moisture while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin cheesecake bars:

What are Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping?

These bars feature a creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling layered over a crunchy walnut crust and topped with a delicious streusel mix.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be made up to two days in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To minimize cracks, avoid overmixing the filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature, and let the cheesecake cool slowly after baking.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

If you have nut allergies, you can use crushed graham crackers or oats as a base instead of walnuts for the crust.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before using it in your recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding spices or swapping nuts. They make a fantastic dessert for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give this recipe a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping. These bars feature a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake layered on a rich walnut and almond crust, crowned with a crunchy streusel topping that adds the perfect texture. Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy night in, these bars are easy to make and will impress your guests with their autumn-inspired flavors. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and nuttiness, making them a fantastic seasonal treat.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 6 oz pumpkin puree
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup oats
• 1/2 cup flour
• 6 T softened butter
• 1 tsp vanilla

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix walnuts, almond flour, white sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Beat cream cheese and white sugar until smooth in another bowl. Add eggs one at a time.
4. Pour half of this mixture onto the crust and smooth it out.
5. Stir in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the remaining mixture; spoon over the first layer.
6. For the streusel topping, mix sugars, oats, flour, softened butter, and vanilla until crumbly; sprinkle over the pumpkin layer.
7. Bake for 60-70 minutes until set. Cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 45mg