Easy Pumpkin Cheesecake Crescent Bars Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• Cooking spray
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
• 1 large egg white
• 1 tablespoon water
• Glaze:
• 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Spray a 9x13-inch pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the white sugar and eggs, and continue to beat until well combined. Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until smooth.
3. Place one package of crescent roll dough into the prepared pan. Pinch the seams of the dough together to seal it.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, smoothing it out with a spatula.
5. Carefully unroll the second package of crescent roll dough and place it over the cream cheese filling. Pinch the seams together to seal.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and water. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the top of the dough with the egg mixture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. Once the cake has finished baking, allow it to cool for 20 minutes before drizzling with the glaze.
10. Serve warm or cold. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	386	-
Total Fat	21g	27%
Saturated Fat	12g	60%
Cholesterol	107mg	36%
Sodium	293mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	43g	16%
Dietary Fiber	1g	5%
Total Sugars	29g	-
Protein	7g	14%
Vitamin C	1mg	1%
Calcium	67mg	5%
Iron	1mg	7%
Potassium	155mg	3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Pumpkin Cheesecake Crescent Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake Crescent Bars are a modern twist on traditional American desserts, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin. The origins of this dessert are closely tied to the popularity of pumpkin in North America, especially during the fall harvest and Thanksgiving season. Cheesecake itself dates back to ancient Greece, but the fusion with pumpkin and convenient crescent roll dough emerged in the late 20th century as home cooks sought quick, easy-to-make desserts that retained gourmet appeal.

Regional Characteristics

These bars are primarily associated with the United States, particularly the Northeastern and Midwestern regions where pumpkin cultivation is widespread. Variations may include different spices such as nutmeg, cloves, or ginger, reflecting regional taste preferences. In the South, recipes often feature a sweeter, more custard-like pumpkin filling, while Northern versions might emphasize a tangier cheesecake layer to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While pumpkin pie and traditional pumpkin cheesecake are closely related, Pumpkin Cheesecake Crescent Bars stand out due to their layered structure and portability. Unlike a standard pie, the bars use crescent roll dough for both the base and topping, creating a flaky, buttery crust that contrasts with the creamy pumpkin and cheesecake layer. This gives them a texture and convenience that traditional pies or baked cheesecakes do not offer.

Where They Are Usually Served

These dessert bars are popular at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. They are often served at Thanksgiving and Halloween celebrations, where pumpkin flavors dominate. Because they are easy to slice into individual portions, they are ideal for buffets or casual parties. Some cafs and bakeries also include them as seasonal treats during the autumn months.

Interesting Facts

• Using crescent roll dough significantly reduces preparation time compared to making a traditional pastry crust from scratch.
• Pumpkin, rich in beta-carotene and fiber, adds both color and nutritional value to the dessert.
• The combination of cheesecake and pumpkin mirrors the flavor profile of popular autumn beverages like pumpkin spice lattes.
• This dessert can be customized with chocolate chips, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel to enhance flavor and texture.
• Despite its modern convenience, the dessert retains the nostalgic warmth of classic fall baking traditions.

FAQ about Easy Pumpkin Cheesecake Crescent Bars Recipe