Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9 × 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Set aside without baking.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Avoid overmixing.
Make the Pumpkin Filling
- Transfer about 1½ cups of the cheesecake batter to a separate bowl.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice until smooth.
Assemble and Bake
- Spoon alternating dollops of plain cheesecake batter and pumpkin cheesecake batter over the prepared crust.
- Gently swirl the batters together with a knife to create a marbled pattern.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Once thoroughly chilled, slice into bars and serve.
Notes
- Gluten-free graham crackers: Use your favorite gluten-free graham crackers. Pamela’s Gluten-Free Honey Grahams work well for this crust.
- Room-temperature ingredients: Let the cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs come to room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Pumpkin puree: Use plain canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Don't overmix: Mix the eggs on low speed until just incorporated to help prevent excess air in the cheesecake.
- Chilling is important: Refrigerate the bars for at least 6 hours before slicing so they have time to firm up.
- Clean slices: For neat bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
- Gluten-free safety: Check ingredient labels and use clean bowls, utensils, and baking equipment to help prevent gluten cross-contact.
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
