Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this creamy Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake—rich, spiced, and perfect for holiday gatherings!
Ingredients:
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
3 tbsp flour, sifted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup brown sugar (for topping)
4 tbsp softened butter (for topping)
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar (for crust)
6 tbsp melted butter (for crust)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). (Prep: 5 mins
)
Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter. Press firmly into bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake 6 minutes; cool slightly. (Prep & Bake: 10 mins
)
For the filling: Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. (Prep: 5 mins
)
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Fold in pumpkin puree and sifted flour until just combined. (Prep: 5 mins
)
Pour filling into cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake 1 hour 15 minutes. (Bake: 1 hr 15 mins
)
Prepare pecan topping: Combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, and softened butter. (Prep: 5 mins
)
After cheesecake bakes, sprinkle topping evenly. Bake an additional 15 minutes. (Bake: 15 mins
)
Turn off oven, leave cheesecake inside with door closed for 30 minutes to set. (Rest: 30 mins
)
Cool at room temperature, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. (Chill: 8+ hrs
)
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Cooling & Chilling Time: 8 hours 30 minutes | Total Time: 10 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 12
#PumpkinPecanCheesecake #FallDesserts #BakingJoy #SweetTreats
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a flawless cheesecake. Begin by ensuring all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling. When making the crust, press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly using the bottom of a measuring cup. For the filling, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until perfectly creamy before adding any sugars. After adding the eggs, mix only until each yolk disappears to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking. The key to the perfect bake is the gentle final cool-down in the turned-off oven, which prevents sudden temperature changes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each chilled slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. For a festive touch, garnish with a few candied pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon. This rich dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee, black tea, or a glass of dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling.
How-to Summary
Create a spiced graham cracker crust and pre-bake it briefly. Prepare a creamy pumpkin-spiced cheesecake filling and bake it in a water bath for even cooking. Top with a buttery pecan streusel during the final stage of baking. The cheesecake must cool gradually in the oven, then chill overnight to set properly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?
Yes, but ensure it’s cooked, pureed, and drained of excess moisture. Canned puree is more consistent for texture and moisture content.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the batter after adding eggs, use a water bath, and allow the cake to cool slowly in the turned-off oven without opening the door.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely. It needs to chill overnight, making it perfect for preparing a day or two in advance. The flavors deepen over time.
Do I have to use a springform pan?
Yes, a 9-inch springform pan is essential for easy removal of this delicate dessert without damaging it.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it (without topping) for up to 2 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients, which leads to a lumpy filling.
- Overbeating the batter after adding eggs, which incorporates too much air and causes cracking.
- Skipping the water bath, which can result in uneven baking and a dry texture.
- Not letting the cheesecake chill long enough; overnight is crucial for the perfect sliceable texture.
- Adding the pecan topping too early, which can cause it to sink into the filling.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake is the ultimate celebration of autumn, masterfully blending creamy, spiced filling with a crunchy, buttery topping. While it requires patience for chilling, the stunning result—a rich, perfectly set dessert that wows any crowd—is well worth the time. Follow the detailed steps and tips to avoid common pitfalls, and you’ll create a holiday centerpiece that earns rave reviews and becomes a requested tradition.