Description
Rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bars with Oat Crumble Topping are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. With a buttery oat crust, a luscious pumpkin cream cheese layer, and a crumbly topping, these bars are ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust/Topping:
- 13 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust/Topping: Cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Gradually add the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Mix until crumbly but cohesive.
- Form the Crust: Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
- Make the Filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Slowly mix in the sweetened condensed milk until creamy. Add the vanilla, egg yolk, pumpkin pie spice, and pumpkin puree, mixing until fully combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the pumpkin cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining oat crumble over the filling.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for garnish.
Notes
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth and creamy filling, ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Option: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Customization: Add nuts or chocolate chips to the crumble for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American