Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

Amazing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping combine rich flavors and a delightful texture that is perfect for any occasion. These bars feature a creamy cheesecake layer on a nutty walnut crust, topped with a crumbly streusel for an irresistible treat. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dessert night, these bars are sure to impress with their standout qualities and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious bars without any hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and warm spices creates an indulgent flavor profile.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as an everyday dessert!
• Crowd-Pleasing: These bars are loved by both kids and adults, making them an ideal choice for any event.
• Make Ahead Option: They can be made in advance and chilled, saving you time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping, having the right tools is key. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (8×8-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and easy removal of the bars when lined with parchment paper.
• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to blend the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, ensuring a creamy cheesecake layer.
• Rubber spatula: Helps in smoothing out layers and mixing ingredients thoroughly without wasting any mixture.

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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.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Make the Walnut Crust

• In a mixing bowl, combine walnuts, almond flour, white sugar, and melted butter.
• Mix until well combined.
• Press this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

• In another bowl, blend room temperature cream cheese with white sugar using an electric mixer until smooth.
• Add in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
• Remove about 1 1/2 cups of this mixture to pour over the walnut crust.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

To the remaining cream cheese mixture in the bowl:
* Stir in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Layer the Mixtures

Carefully spoon the orange pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the plain cheesecake layer. Do not mix; let them remain as distinct layers.

Step 7: Prepare Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl:
* Blend together all streusel topping ingredients—white sugar, brown sugar, oats, flour, softened butter, and vanilla.
* The mixture should be wet but crumbly.

Step 8: Bake

Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the pumpkin cheesecake layer. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 60–70 minutes or until set in the center.

Step 9: Cool and Chill

Once baked:
* Allow to cool slightly before placing it in the fridge or freezer to chill for at least 2 hours.
* After chilling, remove from pan using parchment paper and cut into squares before serving.

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

These delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and a creamy texture that complements the cheesecake.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Add fresh slices of apples or pears on the side. Their crispness pairs beautifully with the creamy bars and adds a refreshing contrast.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the bars enhances their sweetness, creating an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.

Offer Coffee or Tea

• Serve these bars alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warm beverages balance the creamy texture and provide a comforting experience.

Include Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side can turn this dessert into an extra special treat, especially when served warm.

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

To ensure your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smoother filling without lumps, ensuring even baking and consistent texture.
• Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the bars to chill for at least two hours enhances flavor and makes them easier to cut.
• Check for doneness – Bake until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.
• Store properly – Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with spices – Adjust pumpkin spice levels to suit your taste; adding nutmeg or ginger can provide a unique twist.

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

Complement these delightful bars with some tasty side dishes that will enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider – Warm spiced apple cider brings cozy flavors that pair well with pumpkin desserts.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds savory depth before indulging in something sweet.
3. Simple Green Salad – A light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the bars while adding freshness.
4. Cheese Platter – Offer various cheeses like brie and sharp cheddar; they create a savory contrast to the dessert’s sweetness.
5. Granola Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit for a crunchy yet creamy dish that complements the bars nicely.
6. Savory Biscuits – Buttery biscuits can provide a delightful contrast in texture alongside sweet treats, enhancing every bite.
7. Pumpkin Soup – Start off your meal with creamy pumpkin soup; its flavors harmonize beautifully with pumpkin cheesecake.
8. Pecan Pie Bites – For those who love nuts, mini pecan pie bites offer another layer of indulgence without overshadowing your main dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping, there are some common mistakes you should avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong type of pumpkin: Make sure to use 100% pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste and texture.

• Not letting cream cheese soften: Always use room temperature cream cheese. Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your mixture, resulting in a less smooth filling.

• Skipping the chilling step: Patience is key! Chilling your cheesecake bars for at least two hours helps set the layers and improves the overall texture.

• Overbaking the bars: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. They should be slightly firm but still have a little jiggle in the center when done.

• Ignoring ingredient measurements: Precision is important in baking. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately to achieve the right balance of flavors and textures.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, 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, place bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Yes! You can use pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure that they are finely chopped for the crust.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

To make your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars gluten-free, substitute almond flour with a gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and streusel topping.

What is the best way to cut these cheesecake bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe it clean between cuts for nice edges.

Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance flavor. Just sprinkle them evenly over the cheesecake layer before adding streusel topping.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Walnut Crust and Streusel Topping are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different nuts or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for gatherings or just enjoying at home!