No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: A Fiber-Packed Delight

As a dietitian, I’m always looking for delicious ways to incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients into our diets. With autumn around the corner, there's no better time to indulge in the flavors of pumpkin. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree, cottage cheese, oats, dates, and almonds. These bars not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also pack a nutritional punch!

The Benefits of Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is the star of our dessert, and for good reason! It’s rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer. Plus, pumpkin is a fantastic source of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that our bodies convert into vitamin A. This nutrient is vital for eye health and immune function. Incorporating pumpkin into your meals is an easy way to add vitamins and fiber while enjoying the warm, cozy flavors of fall.

Cottage Cheese: A Creamy, Protein-Packed Base

In this recipe, cottage cheese adds creaminess and a significant boost of protein. This dairy ingredient not only helps create a smooth texture for our cheesecake bars but also contributes to muscle maintenance and overall satiety. With the added protein, you’ll find that these bars make for a satisfying snack or dessert. Plus, cottage cheese is a great source of calcium, which is essential for bone health, especially as we transition into cooler months.

Whole Grains and Healthy Fats

The crust of our cheesecake bars is made with oats and almonds, offering a wholesome foundation. Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which can help support cholesterol levels and blood sugar management. Almonds provide healthy fats, which are important for heart health and can help keep you feeling full. Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-rich base that not only tastes great but also fuels your body with the nourishment it needs.

Naturally Sweetened with Dates

To sweeten our bars, we use dates, which are nature’s candy! These little fruits are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Dates are a great alternative to refined sugars, providing a more wholesome sweetness along with additional nutrients. They add a chewy texture that complements the creamy filling perfectly, making each bite enjoyable and satisfying.

Easy Preparation and No Baking Required

One of the best things about these No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious dessert ready to chill in the fridge. No baking means less fuss and mess, making this recipe perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Simply blend the ingredients, layer them in a dish, and let the refrigerator do the rest!

Perfect Fall Treat

These No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars are not just a treat; they’re a wholesome dessert that reflects my commitment to evidence-based nutrition. With the combination of pumpkin puree, cottage cheese, oats, dates, and almonds, you’re getting a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients in every bite. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast on the go! Embrace the flavors of fall while nourishing your body with this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Happy baking—well, no-baking!

Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

Crust -

• 3/4 cup oats

• 3/4 cup almonds

• 1/4 cup dates, pitted

• 3 T maple syrup

• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Filling -

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 cup sweetener (brown sugar, coconut sugar, maple syrup, honey)

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• pinch of ground ginger

• pinch of ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

Crust -

1. Using a food processor or personal size blender, pulse the oats, almonds, dates, maple syrup, and cinnamon.

2. Continue to pulse until it starts sticking together or forms a solid ball when clumped together with your hands.

3. Pour into a lined 4 x 6 glass container. Press down to form a compact, flat crust. Place in freezer for now while moving on to the filling.

Filling -

1. Using a food processor or personal size blender, pulse together the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, sweetener, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla. Blend until creamy and smooth.

2. Pour on top of the crust layer. Place in freezer for a minimum of 4 hours. Let sit on counter for 10 minutes before slicing. Store in freezer and best enjoyed once thawed for 10 minutes each time taken out of freezer. Enjoy!