No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: The Perfect Fall Dessert

No bake pumpkin cheesecake bars are the ultimate fall treat, combining the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of pumpkin. Best of all, there’s no need to turn on your oven! This easy recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or any cozy autumn gathering.

Why You’ll Love These No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

These no bake pumpkin cheesecake bars are everything you love about fall desserts—smooth, creamy, and full of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The graham cracker crust adds a perfect crunch, while the pumpkin filling brings a rich, spiced flavor. Plus, since it’s a no-bake recipe, you can whip it up quickly without the hassle of baking.

Essential Ingredients for No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

To create these no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bars, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (for the crust)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

• 16 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (pure, not pumpkin pie filling)

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• A pinch of sea salt (to balance the sweetness)

How to Make No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• 1. In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs.

• 2. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of sea salt until the texture resembles wet sand.

• 3. Press the mixture firmly into a lined 9×13-inch pan.

• 4. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

• 1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

• 2. Add the pumpkin puree and blend until fully combined.

• 3. Mix in the powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and sea salt.

• 4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

• 5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until smooth and airy.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

• 1. Spread the pumpkin cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust.

• 2. Smooth the top with a spatula for a clean finish.

• 3. Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow them to set properly.

Expert Tips for Perfect No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Use room-temperature ingredients: This ensures a smooth, creamy filling without lumps.

Pure pumpkin puree is key: Don’t use pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices.

Chill thoroughly: The longer you chill, the firmer and easier to slice the bars will be.

Line the pan with parchment paper: This makes it easy to lift the bars out for clean slicing.

Clean your knife between slices: For neat, perfect bars every time.

Common Problems & How to Fix Them

1. Why are my no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bars not setting?

Make sure the heavy cream was whipped to stiff peaks.

Ensure the bars were chilled for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Check that you used full-fat cream cheese, as reduced-fat versions may result in a softer texture.

2. Why is my crust crumbly?

You may not have used enough butter, or the crust wasn’t pressed firmly enough into the pan.

3. Why is the filling grainy?

Ensure the cream cheese was completely softened and beaten until smooth before adding other ingredients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: These no bake pumpkin cheesecake bars are perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can make them up to 2 days in advance, just add any whipped cream garnish right before serving.

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: You can freeze the bars without the whipped cream topping. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Delicious Variations of No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Salted Caramel Drizzle: Add a rich layer of salted caramel sauce on top before serving.

Gingersnap Crust: Swap out the graham crackers for gingersnap cookies for extra spice.

Pecan Topping: Sprinkle crushed pecans or candied pecans on top for added crunch.

Chocolate Ganache Layer: Add a thin layer of dark chocolate ganache between the crust and filling for a decadent twist.

Maple Whipped Cream: Top the bars with whipped cream sweetened with a hint of maple syrup.

Why This No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe Works

The combination of full-fat cream cheese, pumpkin puree, and whipped cream creates a light yet rich filling that holds its shape without baking. The no-bake method simplifies the process and guarantees a smooth, mousse-like texture. The graham cracker crust adds the perfect crunch, balancing the creamy filling with just the right amount of sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can throw off the flavor balance of these no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bars. Use pure pumpkin puree for the best results.

2. How long do no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bars last in the fridge?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bars?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

4. How do I prevent my cheesecake bars from being too soft?

Ensure the whipped cream is beaten to stiff peaks and give the bars plenty of time to chill—at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

5. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Final Thoughts

These no bake pumpkin cheesecake bars are the perfect fall dessert, blending the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm spices of pumpkin. Easy to make, no oven required, and perfect for any fall occasion—from casual family gatherings to festive holiday feasts. With a little patience during the chilling process, you’ll have a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Everyone will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!

More delicious recipes

No Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake Snickerdoodle Bar

Lactation Brownies Recipe