Delicious Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Bars Recipe

When the leaves turn golden and the air carries that crisp autumn chill, nothing satisfies quite like Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Bars. These creamy, spiced dessert bars combine the richness of classic cheesecake with the warm comfort of pumpkin pie and the indulgent sweetness of buttery caramel. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or cozy nights at home, this fall dessert recipe delivers bakery-quality results with simple ingredients.

If you love pumpkin cheesecake but want something easier to slice and serve, these pumpkin cheesecake bars with caramel are the ideal solution. They’re layered, flavorful, and beautifully balanced — not overly sweet, not overly spiced — just pure autumn perfection.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best pumpkin caramel cheesecake bars from scratch.

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Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Bars

These easy autumn cheesecake bars are:

• Rich and creamy with a smooth texture
• Infused with warm fall spices
• Topped with luscious caramel drizzle
• Perfect for Thanksgiving dessert bars
• Easy to slice and transport
• Ideal for meal prep or holiday baking

Unlike a traditional cheesecake that requires a water bath and long baking time, these bars are simpler and more forgiving. They bake evenly in a rectangular pan and chill beautifully.

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What Makes This Fall Dessert Recipe Special

The secret to the best pumpkin caramel cheesecake bars lies in the layers:

1. Buttery Graham Cracker Crust – Slightly crisp and sturdy enough to hold the filling.
2. Velvety Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer – Creamy, spiced, and perfectly balanced.
3. Silky Caramel Topping – Adds sweetness and a luxurious finish.

The caramel doesn’t overpower the pumpkin; instead, it enhances the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Every bite gives you crunch, creaminess, spice, and sweetness all at once.

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Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup brown sugar

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Caramel Topping

• ½ cup thick caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: flaky sea salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust

3. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar.
4. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
7. Remove and let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

8. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
9. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat until creamy.
10. Mix in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
11. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
12. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

4. Assemble and Bake

13. Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the pre-baked crust.
14. Smooth the top with a spatula.
15. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
16. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature for 1 hour.

5. Chill and Add Caramel

17. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours (preferably overnight).
18. Once chilled, drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the top.
19. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
20. Slice into squares using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

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Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Cold cream cheese can cause lumps. Allow it to soften fully before mixing.

2. Don’t Overmix

Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause cracks.

3. Chill Completely

These bars need proper chilling time to set firmly and slice cleanly.

4. Clean Cuts Every Time

Use a sharp knife and wipe between slices for bakery-style presentation.

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Flavor Variations

Want to customize your pumpkin caramel cheesecake bars? Try these ideas:

Chocolate Swirl Version

Add melted dark chocolate and swirl it into the batter before baking.

Pecan Crunch Topping

Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the caramel for added texture.

Maple Caramel Twist

Use maple-flavored caramel sauce for a deeper autumn taste.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

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Serving Suggestions

These Thanksgiving dessert bars pair beautifully with:

• Fresh whipped cream
• Vanilla bean ice cream
• Hot apple cider
• Spiced chai latte
• Strong brewed coffee

They’re also excellent for:

• Holiday dessert tables
• Potluck gatherings
• Fall birthdays
• Meal prep desserts
• Friendsgiving celebrations

Because they’re easy to slice and stack, they travel better than traditional cheesecake.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze (without caramel topping) for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Add caramel after thawing for best texture.

These easy autumn cheesecake bars are ideal for prepping ahead of busy holiday schedules.

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Nutritional Highlights

While definitely a treat, pumpkin adds nutritional benefits such as:

• Vitamin A
• Fiber
• Antioxidants
• Immune-supporting nutrients

The balance of pumpkin and cream cheese gives these bars a richer texture than traditional pumpkin pie while maintaining seasonal flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pumpkin pie filling?

No. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which will alter the texture and sweetness balance.

How do I prevent cracks?

Avoid overbaking. The center should still jiggle slightly when removed from the oven.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time slightly.

Can I make homemade caramel?

Absolutely. Homemade caramel adds a richer flavor but store-bought works perfectly for convenience.

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Why These Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Bars Are Perfect for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving desserts often include pies, but these pumpkin cheesecake bars with caramel offer a modern twist. They combine the traditional pumpkin flavor everyone expects with a creamy cheesecake texture and an elegant presentation.

They’re easier to serve than pie slices, don’t require a springform pan, and look stunning on a dessert table.

If you’re searching for the ultimate fall dessert recipe, this one checks every box: flavor, texture, visual appeal, and convenience.

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Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate combination of fall comfort and decadent indulgence. With their buttery crust, creamy spiced filling, and rich caramel topping, they deliver everything you want in a seasonal dessert.

Whether you’re preparing Thanksgiving dessert bars, hosting a fall gathering, or simply craving pumpkin cheesecake bars with caramel, this recipe guarantees impressive results every time.

Bake once, and it may just become your go-to autumn tradition.