Name: Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-490719H54M31S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 sheets graham crackers; 6 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree; 16 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Looking for a sweet way to end your Thanksgiving feast without wrecking your grocery budget? You’re not alone. As food costs continue to climb, more home bakers are embracing budget-friendly desserts that still deliver the cozy, indulgent flavors of the season.

These Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts are proof that frugality doesn’t mean flavorless. In fact, this creamy pumpkin cheesecake bar—swirled with tangy cream cheese and finished with a cinnamon-sugar topping—is one of the easiest and most satisfying treats to make. The texture is part pie, part cake, and all comfort.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the ingredients, it’s important to set your kitchen up for success. Here are the must-have tools for making these cheesecake bars:

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of large and medium bowls to mix the crust, filling, and topping separately. Non-slip bases help with stability.
Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For that creamy smooth filling, a mixer ensures the cream cheese and pumpkin blend without lumps.
9×13 Baking Dish: This size is ideal for evenly baked bars that slice clean.
Parchment Paper: Makes lifting and slicing easy, while also preventing sticking.
Spatula: Helps fold in ingredients and spread the mixture evenly without deflating the creamy filling.

Having the right tools makes prep faster and guarantees a consistent bake, especially when working with delicate layers like pumpkin and cream cheese.

Ingredients for the Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts

Each ingredient in these pumpkin cheesecake bars plays a key role in creating that luscious flavor and perfect texture:

Graham Crackers: Crushed into crumbs, they form the buttery base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
Butter: Melted and mixed with graham cracker crumbs to create a firm, flavorful crust.
Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show, giving the bars their signature fall flavor and smooth texture.
Cream Cheese: Brings richness and tang, balancing the sweetness with a subtle sharpness.
Sugar: Both white and brown sugars add sweetness and a touch of molasses depth.
Eggs: Help set the cheesecake layer and give structure.
Vanilla Extract: A warm aromatic touch that rounds out the flavor.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that unmistakable holiday aroma.
All-Purpose Flour: Adds just enough stability to the batter.
Ground Cinnamon: Sprinkled on top for extra warmth and visual appeal.

How To Make the Decadently Delicious Cheap Thanksgiving Desserts

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press this mixture into a lined 9×13 baking dish to form an even crust. Chill it in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Layer

In a large bowl, beat together pumpkin puree, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add flour and pumpkin pie spice and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Pour the pumpkin mixture over the chilled crust. Dollop small spoonfuls of sweetened cream cheese on top and use a knife to swirl it into the pumpkin mixture for a marbled effect.

Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Topping

Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the entire top before baking. This adds warmth and that signature spiced finish.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes or until set in the center. Let the bars cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.

Serving and Storing Your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

These pumpkin cheesecake bars are best served chilled, making them perfect for make-ahead planning. The creamy texture firms up beautifully in the fridge, giving you clean, confident slices every time. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel if you’re feeling festive.

For storing, keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them: wrap individual pieces in parchment and place in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling?

Pumpkin puree is 100% pure pumpkin with no added ingredients. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which can throw off the balance of your recipe. Always go for the puree.

Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?

You could, but a homemade graham crust in a 9×13 pan gives better texture and coverage. Store-bought ones are usually round and shallow—not ideal for bars.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. The edges will be slightly puffed and firm. Overbaking can cause cracking.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, with some modifications. Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives. Be sure they are the brick-style versions for proper consistency.

Why is my filling lumpy?

Lumps usually come from cold cream cheese. Let it soften to room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky texture.

What toppings go well with these bars?

Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, chopped pecans, or even a dusting of powdered sugar all elevate the presentation and flavor.

Want More Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas?

If these pumpkin cheesecake bars hit the sweet spot, here are more Thanksgiving-worthy treats that are easy on the wallet and big on comfort:

You might also enjoy the Cinnamon Donut Bread if you love spiced, fluffy bakes. Or try No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies for an effortless creamy dessert that doesn’t require oven space.

The Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are perfect for bite-sized indulgence, while the 2-Ingredient Pineapple Cake is ideal if you’re low on ingredients but still want to impress.

And don’t miss the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes for a festive twist on a campfire classic.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your Thanksgiving dessert board for later—just click the Pin button.

If you bake it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try extra cinnamon? Did you top with pecans? Leave a comment below. Sharing your tweaks and tips helps the whole community.

For more dessert inspiration, check out my daily posts on Pinterest at LadyPlate.