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How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars
These bars come together in a few simple steps, with the most time-consuming part being the layering process. But trust us—it’s worth it! Here’s how to make them:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Crust
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix until well combined, and the batter forms a thick dough. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared 9×13-inch pan. Use your fingers or a spoon to spread it into a smooth, even layer.
Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling
In another large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), salt, and cream (or evaporated milk). Mix until smooth and creamy. This will be the rich, spiced pumpkin layer that forms the bulk of the bars.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the flour, egg, and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Pour the pumpkin filling over the prepared crust in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Then, spoon the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer in dollops. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cream cheese into the pumpkin filling to create a marbled effect. Don’t mix it completely—this swirl effect is what gives these bars their signature “dreamy” look and texture.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the bars are set and lightly golden around the edges. A toothpick or cake tester should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs when inserted into the center. The bars may slightly puff up as they bake, but they will settle as they cool.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. For an extra touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a few chopped pecans or candied walnuts for a bit of crunch.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars
- Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains additional spices and sugar, which can alter the flavor and texture of the bars.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: To get a smooth cream cheese layer, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. Cold cream cheese can result in lumps that are hard to incorporate.
- Don’t Overmix the Pumpkin Filling: Overmixing the pumpkin filling can cause it to become too runny. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge. They actually taste even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
- Let Them Cool Completely: As tempting as it is to dive in right away, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into them. This ensures they set properly and the layers stay intact.
- Top with Whipped Cream or Caramel: For an extra indulgent treat, serve these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a few chopped nuts can also add a beautiful, festive touch.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are the ultimate dessert for fall lovers. They offer the best of both worlds—rich, spiced pumpkin pie filling paired with a creamy, cheesecake-like topping, all encased in a buttery cookie crust. The balance of flavors and textures is irresistible, and they’re the perfect dessert for everything from casual get-togethers to festive holidays like Thanksgiving and Halloween.
These bars are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite and will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or need a dessert that will impress at your next potluck, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars are a delicious, easy-to-make option that’s sure to steal the spotlight.
So, this fall, give these bars a try and experience the magic of pumpkin and cream cheese in every bite. Trust us—these bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a little slice of fall heaven!
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