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As the leaves begin to change colors and the air turns crisp, nothing signals the arrival of autumn quite like the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin. This versatile ingredient has become a staple in seasonal baking, infusing everything from lattes to pies with its rich, earthy essence. Among the myriad of pumpkin desserts, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cookie Bars stand out as a must-try treat. These bars combine the tender, spiced sweetness of a pumpkin cookie with a luscious cream cheese layer, creating a dessert that is not only visually appealing but also a delight to the palate.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cookie Bars

Dive into autumn with delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cookie Bars! Combining spiced pumpkin cookie layers with a creamy cheese topping, this treat captures the essence of fall. Learn how to whip up these soft, warm bars using pure pumpkin puree, sweet cream cheese, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a warm night at home, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite that delights every palate. Enjoy the flavors of fall today!
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Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Cookie Base:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping (Optional):

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Whipped cream for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

    Make the Cookie Base:

      - In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

        - Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

          - Mix in the pumpkin puree until smooth.

            - In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger), and salt.

              - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.

                Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:

                  - In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

                    - Add the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined and creamy.

                      Assemble the Bars:

                        - Pour about two-thirds of the pumpkin cookie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

                          - Carefully dollop the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin base, using a spatula or spoon to spread it if needed.

                            - Drop spoonfuls of the remaining pumpkin cookie batter over the cream cheese layer, creating a swirled effect with a knife or toothpick for a marbled appearance.

                              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few crumbs are okay but not gooey).

                                Cool and Serve:

                                  - Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. Then, transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.

                                    - For serving, top with chopped nuts and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

                                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12 bars