1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. 🏠
In a medium bowl, mix crushed ginger snap cookies with melted butter until fully combined. 🍪🧈
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes. Set aside to cool. ⏲️
2️⃣ Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined. 🧀🍬🥚
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly. 🍰
3️⃣ Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture Layer:
In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Stir until fully blended. 🎃🌰
Spoon the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread gently to create a smooth layer. 🍂
4️⃣ Bake:
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly firm. ⏲️
Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. ❄️
5️⃣ Add the Topping:
Just before serving, top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed ginger snaps. 🎃🍦🍪
Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dream Bars as a perfect fall dessert! 🍂
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 35-40 minutes | Chill Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 bars
