Get ready to indulge in a delightful twist on a classic dessert with these Cheesecake Pumpkin Bars in a Jar! Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, these individual servings combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin, all nestled in a charming mason jar. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake, enticing your taste buds and making your guests eager for a taste. With just 50 minutes of total prep and cooking time, you can whip up this scrumptious treat that’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare 8 clean mason jars by lightly greasing them with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined and slightly crumbly. Press about 2 tablespoons of this mixture into the bottom of each mason jar to create the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and both white and brown sugars until smooth and creamy, using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure the mixture is fully incorporated and free of lumps.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix until the filling is completely smooth and uniform in color.
- Carefully pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust in each mason jar, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
- Place the filled jars in a large baking dish and fill the dish with hot water about halfway up the sides of the jars to create a water bath.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Carefully remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake jars for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow them to set completely.
- Optional: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, or crushed graham crackers on top.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pumpkin Puree: For the best flavor, use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs, mix just until incorporated to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in your cheesecake.
- Water Bath Magic: The water bath technique not only helps in even cooking but also prevents the cheesecake from cracking. Make sure the water is hot when you pour it into the baking dish.
- Chill for Best Results: Allowing the jars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) enhances the flavors and ensures a perfect set.
- Garnish Creatively: Get creative with your toppings! Whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even crushed pecans can elevate your dessert to the next level.
- Serving Suggestion: These jars make for a stunning presentation! Serve them directly in the jars for a rustic feel, or transfer to plates for a more polished look.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
