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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, many home bakers start to crave the warm, comforting flavors of autumn. One recipe that captures the essence of the season perfectly is Pumpkin Bliss Cream Cheese Layer Bars. This delectable dessert not only showcases the rich taste of pumpkin but also combines it with a creamy layer of cream cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that is sure to impress.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Layer Bars

Fall is here, and it's the perfect time to indulge in Pumpkin Bliss Cream Cheese Layer Bars! This delightful dessert combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese layer. Each bite is a beautiful mix of textures and colors, making these bars not just tasty but also visually stunning. Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this seasonal treat will impress your guests and satisfy your autumn cravings. Grab the recipe now to enjoy a slice of fall!

Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon salt

For the pumpkin layer:

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

½ cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ground cloves

¼ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream cheese layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup powdered sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the crust: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir the mixture until a crumbly dough forms. Evenly press this dough into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish to create a uniform layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the next layer.

    Make the pumpkin layer: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, salt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture over the slightly cooled crust, using a spatula to evenly spread it out across the surface.

      Prepare the cream cheese layer: In another medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully combined and silky in texture. Gently pour the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer, ensuring that the two layers remain separate by carefully spreading it on top without disturbing the pumpkin layer below.

        Bake the bars: Return the layered dessert to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is fully set and the edges feel slightly firm to the touch. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.

          Cool and serve: When the baking time is complete, take the dish out of the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Once cooled, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the layers. Prior to serving, cut into squares and for an elegant touch, dust the top with additional powdered sugar.

            Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 bars

              - Presentation Tips: Serve the bars on a decorative platter and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for added visual appeal.