Pumpkin Dream Bars
These Pumpkin Dream Bars blend the comforting taste of pumpkin with a delightful texture, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Ideal for any occasion, they offer simple assembly with cozy flavors.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ⅓ cups crushed Gingersnap cookie crumbs provides a sweet and spicy base
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter adds moisture and richness
Filling
- 1 package Pumpkin Spice Pudding Mix (3.4 ounces) contributes flavor and creaminess
- 1 ½ cups milk provides moisture and smoothness
- 6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature adds a rich, creamy texture
- ½ cup confectioners' sugar sweetens and smooths the creamy layer
- ¼ cup pure pumpkin puree intensifies the pumpkin flavor
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract enhances overall sweetness and flavor
- ¾ teaspoon pumpkin spice adds a warm spice blend
- 1 cup Cool Whip provides lightness and creaminess
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, divided used in layers for texture
- to taste Chopped pecans and additional crushed Gingersnap cookies for topping, if desired, adds texture and crunch
Instructions
Preparation
- Line an 8X8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
- Melt the butter and mix it with the crushed Gingersnap cookie crumbs. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan and freeze for 30 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin spice pudding mix with the milk. Whisk until smooth and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the confectioners' sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin spice. Gently fold in one cup of Cool Whip.
- Spread the pumpkin cream cheese layer over the chilled cookie crust.
- Pour the chilled pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and top with the remaining Cool Whip.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or freeze for 1.5 hours until set.
- Before serving, top with chopped pecans and additional crushed Gingersnap cookies if desired.
Notes
For best results, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, and allow adequate chilling time for layers to set properly.