Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bars: A Decadent Fall Treat

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, and today, I’m thrilled to share one of my favorite fall recipes: Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bars. As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen. These bars combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any autumn gathering.

Cooking is a cherished activity in my home, especially when my son joins in. We find joy in simple recipes that allow us to bond and create lasting memories. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it’s also a fantastic way to introduce your little ones to the joy of baking!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the fun part—baking—let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need the following:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar

These ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this recipe accessible for everyone. Plus, they come together to create a decadent treat that will have your family begging for more!

Timing

Time is of the essence when it comes to baking. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling time: 1 hour

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 50 minutes from start to finish. This is a perfect project for a cozy afternoon in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Let’s get baking:

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice. This step ensures that your spices are evenly distributed.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the egg and vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Incorporate the pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree until fully blended.
6. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix!
7. Prepare the cream cheese layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
8. Layer the batter: Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared pan. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the top, and then dollop the remaining pumpkin batter on top. Use a knife to swirl it gently for a marbled effect.
9. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 1 hour before slicing.

And there you have it! Your Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bars are ready to be devoured. They’re the perfect treat for fall festivities.

Nutritional Information

It’s important to know what’s in our food. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 16 servings):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

While these bars are a treat, they’re still a delicious indulgence worth every calorie!

Healthier Alternatives

Want to lighten things up a bit? Here are some alternatives you can try:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
• Replace the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.
• Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories.

These simple swaps can make your Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bars a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

How can you enjoy these bars to their fullest? Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy afternoon treat.

These bars are versatile and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dessert or a festive gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers can make mistakes. Here are a few common pitfalls:

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Baking is a science! Use measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool helps them set properly.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time!

Storage Tips

Want to keep your bars fresh? Here’s how to store them:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to a week.
• You can also freeze them! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Just remember to let them thaw before serving!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bars are more than just a delicious treat; they’re a way to celebrate the flavors of fall and create memories in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy making these bars as much as my family does!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook and puree your pumpkin until it’s smooth.

What if I don’t have pumpkin spice?

You can make your own pumpkin spice using equal parts cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this delicious journey of baking Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Bars. I hope this recipe brings warmth, joy, and a sprinkle of sweetness to your fall festivities. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!

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