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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and crumbly.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Pumpkin Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until smooth and well combined.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and smooth.
5. Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the pumpkin filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Then, using a spoon, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer. You can swirl it slightly with a knife or toothpick for a marbled effect.
6. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. The cream cheese layer should be slightly puffed and golden.
7. Cool and Cut:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
8. Serve:
- Enjoy your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars chilled or at room temperature. They’re perfect as a festive treat for gatherings or a cozy dessert at home.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Pumpkin: If you want to make these bars with fresh pumpkin, roast and puree your own pumpkin for a more intense flavor.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste—add more cinnamon or a pinch of allspice for extra warmth.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Health Benefits
- Pumpkin Power: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making these bars a more nutritious dessert option.
- Cream Cheese: While creamy and indulgent, cream cheese also provides some protein, making these bars satisfying.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are a delightful addition to your fall baking repertoire. With their rich pumpkin flavor and creamy cheesecake layer, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed as a dessert at a holiday gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself, these bars will bring a taste of autumn to your table. Bake a batch today and enjoy the flavors of the season!