Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar and the melted butter. Press into a foil-lined 8x8-inch pan.

Step 2

In a small bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs, mix just until combined, then pour over crust. Place in the oven and bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until set. Transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool.

Step 3

Meanwhile, separate the three remaining eggs. In a medium saucepan set over medium-low heat, combine the yolks, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Cook, whisking every few minutes for 10 minutes or until mixture reaches 160°. Remove from the heat, whisk in the vanilla extract.

Step 4

In a small microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the water; let stand for 1 minute, then microwave for 30 seconds or until the gelatin is dissolved. Stir into pumpkin mixture; set aside.

Step 5

In the top of a double boiler, combine the granulated sugar, egg whites and cream of tartar. Beat with an electric mixer set at low speed for 30 seconds, then set the pan over boiling water (the pan shouldn't touch the water). Beating at high speed, for about 7-9 minutes, or until it's stiff and glossy. Remove it from the heat, and beat an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 6

Fold into the pumpkin mixture then spread evenly over cream cheese layer. Refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour, then cover and refrigerate for an additional 3 hours or until firm. Garnish with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice; if desired.