Set aside 3/4 Cup of the cake mix in a separate bowl.
1 Package Cake Mix
In a small bowl, combine gingersnap cookies and remaining cake mix. Mix until well combined.
1 Cup Cookies
Add butter and egg and stir to combine again then press into a parchment lined 9x13" baking pan. (We prefer this gold one because testing has shown it to achieve the most even bake and color.) Set aside.
1/2 Cup Butter, 1 Egg
For the Filling
In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
1 Package Cream Cheese, 2/3 Cup Brown Sugar
Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating until smooth.
3 Large Eggs
Completely scrape the pumpkin out of the can and add it, the cream, spices and vanilla to the bowl and beat only until just combined. DO NOT OVER MIX.
1 Can Pumpkin Puree, 1/4 Cup Heavy Cream, 1 teaspoon Cinnamon, 1 1/2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice, 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
Pour over the crust and use a rubber spatula to spread evenly.
For the topping
In the bowl with the reserved 3/4 cup of cake mix, add the cookie crumbs and sugar. Mix to combine so it makes an even topping.
1/2 Cup Cookies, 2 Tablespoons Sugar, 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
Using a pastry cutter, cut in the butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over filling evenly.
1/2 Cup Butter
Carefully move the bars to the center rack of the oven to bake at 325 for 70-75 minutes or until the center reaches 160 degrees and only has a slight jiggle. Cool for 2 hours then serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Store in the refrigerator.
Notes
Recipe slightly adapted from Taste of Home.You could add chopped pecan or walnuts to the topping or crust if desired. A cinnamon or maple whipped cream would also be good!Stored in an airtight container, in the refrigerator, these bars will keep for 3 days.