Description
Indulge in these sophisticated autumn bars featuring a crisp, buttery graham cracker crust topped with a light, spiced pumpkin mousse and a velvety cream cheese layer. By using a gentle gelatin stabilizer, these bars achieve a perfect, cloud-like texture that holds its shape beautifully. Ideal for holiday gatherings or casual treats, this reliable recipe ensures professional results and a stunning textural contrast in every bite.
Ingredients
1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup salted butter, melted
8 Tbsp powdered sugar, divided
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup 100% pumpkin puree
1 7/12 cups cold whipping cream
1 tsp unflavored gelatin powder
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 square baking dish with parchment paper.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar in a bowl.
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until golden, then allow to cool completely.
Sprinkle the gelatin over a small amount of cold water in a saucepan and let bloom for 10 minutes.
Warm the gelatin mixture gently until dissolved, then incorporate it into the pumpkin puree.
Beat the cream cheese with a portion of the powdered sugar until smooth, then fold into the pumpkin mixture.
Whip the cold cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the pumpkin cream cheese mixture.
Spread the filling evenly over the cooled crust and refrigerate until set.
Notes
Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps. For a firmer crust, use digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers. These bars can be assembled ahead of time, making them a perfect stress-free dessert for hosts.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking and Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg