📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This'll save you a headache later when you are trying to get those squares out. Trust me!
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Make sure everything is evenly distributed; nobody wants a bite of pure baking soda!
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. This is where the magic begins, so don't rush it!
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough squares. Nobody wants tough squares!
5. In a small bowl, combine all the cream cheese layer ingredients and beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside. This layer is what makes this so special! Don't skip it!
6. In another small bowl, combine all the streusel topping ingredients and mix with a fork until crumbly. The streusel adds a delightful crunch. A little tip: chill the topping in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking for extra crispiness.
7. Pour half of the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the batter, then swirl it gently with a knife or skewer. This creates the signature cinnamon swirl effect!
8. Pour the remaining pumpkin batter over the cream cheese layer, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the squares cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. I usually let them cool on a wire rack to speed up the process.
10. Cut into squares and serve. These are wonderful warm or at room temperature. Consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Why not? You deserve it!