Name: Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup melted butter; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

These creamy pumpkin cheesecake bars are the definition of holiday bliss on a budget. With a spiced graham cracker crust, velvety layers of cream cheese and pumpkin, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top, this dessert delivers Thanksgiving vibes without breaking the bank. The textures alone—buttery crunch meets melt-in-your-mouth richness—are enough to make them your new seasonal favorite.

Even better, this dessert is wildly simple to put together. It uses pantry staples, bakes up beautifully in a single pan, and serves a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a full dinner or need a sweet contribution to Friendsgiving, these bars have your back.

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Thanksgiving Dessert

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need fancy ingredients to make something memorable.
Make-Ahead Magic: Chill these overnight and they’re even better the next day.
Classic Flavors: It’s everything you love about pumpkin pie and cheesecake combined.
Easy to Serve: No slicing up messy pies—just grab and go!

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Yes! If you have time to roast and puree your own pumpkin, go for it. Just make sure it’s thick and not too watery. Canned pumpkin is convenient and reliable, but homemade gives it that extra personal touch. Just don’t use pumpkin pie filling, which is already sweetened and spiced.

Ingredients for the Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts

This recipe keeps it simple while layering in rich, holiday flavor. Each ingredient has a role in making this dessert luscious and comforting.

Graham cracker crumbs: Form the buttery, slightly crisp crust that balances the soft filling.
Melted butter: Binds the crust together and adds richness.
Cream cheese: The creamy base of the cheesecake layer; tangy and smooth.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the pumpkin and cheesecake layers just right.
Vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic flavor throughout.
Eggs: Help firm up the filling and give structure.
Pumpkin puree: The star of the show—earthy, naturally sweet, and festive.
Pumpkin pie spice: Delivers that unmistakable Thanksgiving aroma.
Ground cinnamon (for topping): A final cozy dusting that ties it all together.

How To Make the Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Preheat oven to 325°F.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Layer

Beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add an egg and mix until combined. Pour over crust and smooth it out.

Step 4: Create the Pumpkin Layer

In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and pumpkin pie spice. Spread gently over the cheesecake layer.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake for 40–45 minutes until set. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Sprinkle cinnamon on top before slicing into bars. Serve chilled for best texture.

How to Serve and Store These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

These bars make 16 small squares or 9 larger ones—perfect for a crowd or intimate gathering. For a clean cut, use a warm knife and wipe between slices.

Storing: Keep them chilled in an airtight container for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month—just thaw overnight in the fridge.

What to Serve With This Dessert?

Pair these pumpkin cheesecake bars with drinks or bites that enhance the fall flavors and add variety to your table:

Apple Cider

A warm or chilled glass complements the spice beautifully.

Whipped Cream

Add a dollop on top for extra indulgence.

Pecan Pralines

The nutty crunch contrasts perfectly with the creamy bars.

Spiced Nuts

Another great texture contrast that feels right at home at Thanksgiving.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle over the top for a bakery-style presentation.

Hot Coffee

A must if you’re serving these after a big meal.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Because cold, creamy toppings always win.

Want More Dessert Ideas for the Holidays?

If these pumpkin cheesecake bars hit the spot, you’ll love trying more creative sweets like these:

Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins — warm, soft, and swirled with rich flavor.
Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast — a breakfast-for-dessert winner.
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake — bold, rich, and beautifully layered.
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups — for a tart-sweet bite in every spoonful.
Chocolate Instant Pudding — creamy comfort in a cup.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with chocolate chips? Or maybe a gingersnap crust twist? I’m always curious to see your take.

Explore beautifully curated holiday sweets and cozy comfort foods on Nora Nosh Recipes and find your next crave-worthy dessert!

Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Nora
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 16 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a cheap Thanksgiving dessert that tastes like pure indulgence? These decadent pumpkin cheesecake bars are a crowd-pleaser layered with a buttery graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and warmly spiced pumpkin. They’re easy to make, use simple pantry staples, and deliver all the festive flavors of fall. Whether you need a last-minute Friendsgiving treat or want a budget-friendly option for your dessert table, this easy recipe ticks every box. It’s perfect for your list of easy recipes, Thanksgiving dessert ideas, cheap holiday desserts, or quick baking food ideas for a crowd.