•INGREDIENTS:
– For the Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– For the Cheesecake Layer:
– 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
– 8 oz fat-free cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 large egg
– For the Pumpkin Layer:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
•INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat the Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Crust:
– In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
– Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
– Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the reduced-fat and fat-free cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
– Add the sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
– Add the egg whites and egg, one at a time, beating on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Prepare the Pumpkin Layer:
– In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the Layers:
– Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
– Carefully spoon the pumpkin mixture over the cheesecake layer, spreading it gently.
– Top with the remaining cheesecake mixture, spreading it evenly over the pumpkin layer.
6. Bake the Bars:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
– Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.