Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a cozy autumn evening? This pumpkin pecan cheesecake recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, spiced pumpkin and crunchy pecans – a delicious and impressive dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through creating a homemade masterpiece that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or a delightful treat for a quiet night in. Get ready to experience the ultimate fall flavor combination! This easy recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals with a decadent twist.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted and roughly chopped
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal once the cheesecake is baked.
- Toast the pecans: Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely before chopping. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer. This ensures a sturdy and delicious base for your cheesecake.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Beat in the pumpkin puree until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix; this can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
- Stir in cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. The combination of warm spices creates the perfect fall flavor profile.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
- Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This creates a water bath, which helps prevent cracking and ensures even baking.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for an hour. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracking.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to fully set.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake:
- Use high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can lead to cracks.
- Make sure the cheesecake is completely cool before refrigerating.
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the crust.
Variations:
- Add a swirl of caramel sauce to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Top with whipped cream and extra pecans before serving.
- Use gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers for the crust.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Fat: Approximately 30-35g Sugar: Approximately 40-45g
This pumpkin pecan cheesecake is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and homemade cooking. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dessert recipe and share the deliciousness! It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply enjoying a moment of deliciousness. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a great example of easy recipes that deliver impressive results.