Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

Amazing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in something sweet at home, these bars deliver rich flavors and delightful textures. The combination of creamy pumpkin cheesecake, a crunchy walnut crust, and a crumbly streusel topping makes each bite irresistible. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal dessert for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip these bars up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The layers of pumpkin cheesecake combined with the nutty walnut crust create a flavor explosion that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even as a cozy treat on a chilly evening.
• Make Ahead: These bars chill beautifully, making them great for preparing in advance to save time on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their stunning presentation and delicious taste, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8-inch baking dish: Perfect size for creating thick, chewy bars that hold together well.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a smooth cheesecake mixture without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients for optimal flavor.

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 Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer

• 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 for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Walnut Crust

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine walnuts, almond flour, white sugar, and melted butter.
2. Mix until wet and crumbly.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the parchment-lined baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Mixture

In another bowl:
1. Beat together room temperature cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Remove 1 1/2 cups of this mixture and pour it over the walnut crust. Smooth evenly over the top.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin to Remaining Mixture

To the remaining cheesecake mixture:
1. Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice.
2. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Layer the Pumpkin Cheesecake Mixture

Carefully spoon the orange pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the white cheesecake layer on top of the crust. Be careful not to mix them together.

Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl:
1. Blend together white sugar, brown sugar, oats, flour, softened butter, and vanilla until crumbly but moist.
2. Evenly sprinkle this streusel topping over the pumpkin cheesecake layer.

Step 7: Bake Your Bars

Place in preheated oven:
– Bake at 350 degrees F for about 60-70 minutes or until set in the center.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

Once done:
– Cool slightly before placing in fridge or freezer to chill completely. Chill for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares for serving.

Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping! They are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!

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

Serving Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping offers a delightful experience for your guests. These bars can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light, airy contrast to the rich cheesecake.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Serve these bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverages complement the spiced flavors beautifully.

Add a Drizzle of Caramel Sauce

• Drizzling caramel sauce over the bars adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness, making them even more indulgent.

Garnish with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature

• These bars can be served chilled for a refreshing treat or at room temperature for a softer texture—both are delicious!

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

Perfecting your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, creamy texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When incorporating eggs into the cream cheese mixture, mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.

• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid when you take it out of the oven.

• Cool Gradually: After baking, let your bars cool in the pan before transferring them to the fridge. This helps prevent cracking.

• Chill Before Serving: For best flavor and texture, chill your bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Crisp Apple Salad: A fresh apple salad adds a crunchy contrast that balances the cheesecake’s richness.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the spices in the cheesecake beautifully while adding a creamy texture.

3. Spiced Pear Compote: Serve warm spiced pear compote on the side to enhance fall flavors and provide a fruity element.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Offer chocolate fondue as a dipping option for those who enjoy mixing sweet flavors; it’s fun and interactive!

5. Mixed Berry Medley: A simple berry mix adds brightness and tartness that perfectly contrasts with the creamy cheesecake.

6. Candied Nuts: Sweetened nuts provide an additional crunch that pairs well with both the crust and streusel topping.

7. Pumpkin Spice Latte: For beverage pairing, serve pumpkin spice lattes to reinforce those seasonal flavors while keeping it cozy.

8. Caramelized Bananas: These sweet, warm bananas can add another dimension of flavor when drizzled over individual bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping, avoid these common pitfalls to achieve the best results.

• Incorrect cream cheese temperature: Using cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy mixture. Always ensure it’s at room temperature for a smooth blend.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy in your ingredients.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm cheesecake bars can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool slightly before chilling in the fridge or freezer.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air, resulting in cracks during baking. Mix just until combined for a dense texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven is different; always preheat and use an oven thermometer if necessary to ensure accurate baking conditions.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the bars in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for about 15-20 seconds per bar, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping.

Can I use different nuts for the crust?

Yes! You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds based on your preference.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?

The edges should be set, while the center may jiggle slightly. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead. Just follow storage instructions after they cool.

What can I add to customize my Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping?

Consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices like nutmeg for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients. Enjoy these delicious treats during any season!

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: Dian
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping, a perfect dessert for any occasion. These bars feature a creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling layered atop a rich walnut crust, all crowned with a buttery streusel topping. The combination of textures—smooth, crunchy, and crumbly—creates an irresistible treat that is not only satisfying but also simple to prepare. Ideal for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, these bars can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them at your leisure. Impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make dessert that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!

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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 salted butter, melted
• 6 oz pumpkin puree
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 16 oz cream cheese, room temp.
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. For the walnut crust, mix the walnuts, almond flour, sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Press evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Reserve 1½ cups of this mixture.
4. Incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the remaining cheesecake mixture until well blended.
5. Pour the reserved mixture over the crust, then layer the pumpkin cheesecake on top carefully.
6. Prepare the streusel by combining sugar, oats, flour, softened butter, and vanilla until crumbly; sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake for 60-70 minutes until set in the center. Cool slightly before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 60g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg