🎃 Vintage Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cake Bars

A 1970s Church Cookbook Classic – Still Loved Today

Some recipes stay in the family for decades—this one has been shared from mother to daughter since the 1970s. First discovered in a Lutheran church cookbook and made with the newly popular box cake mix of that era, it quickly became a staple at family gatherings.

“My mom has been making these since the 1970s… I’m proud it’s a 30+ year family tradition—because they truly are the most delicious treat ever!”

Simple. Comforting. Made with just a few pantry staples. And now, yours to enjoy.

🍰 1950s Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cake Bars

🧾 Ingredients

For the base:

• 1 box yellow cake mix

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

For the creamy pumpkin layer:

• 1 block (8 oz) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup Libby’s 100% pure pumpkin puree

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon + nutmeg mix)

• Optional: 1 tbsp milk (for extra creaminess)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F / 180°C.

2. Prepare the base:
   Mix the cake mix, eggs, and oil until combined. Press into a greased 9×13-inch pan.

3. Bake the base for 15 minutes and let it slightly cool.

4. Make the pumpkin cream layer:
   In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin spice. Mix until creamy.

5. Spread mixture evenly over the baked base.

6. Return to oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until set.

7. Let it cool completely.

8. Chill for 1–2 hours, then cut into squares or bars.

👉 Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel before serving if you want to make them irresistible!

✨ Why Everyone Loves These

✔ Quick & easy – only a handful of ingredients
✔ Cozy fall flavor with creamy texture
✔ Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or coffee time
✔ Can be made ahead and refrigerated

💛 A Bite of Nostalgia

This isn’t just a dessert—it’s a memory. A reminder of simpler times, handwritten recipes, and kitchens filled with laughter. Now it’s ready to become your tradition too.

📌 Save this recipe and share it to pass on the warmth!