Pumpkin cheesecake is a luscious and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with the smooth texture of cheesecake. Perfect for autumn celebrations, Thanksgiving, or any time you’re craving a comforting treat, this dessert is sure to impress. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy pumpkin filling, and warm spices makes this pumpkin cheesecake a standout choice. Follow this recipe to create a delectable dessert that will become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cheesecake
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Topping:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sugar and beat until well combined.
- Mix in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
- Add the sour cream and flour, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
4. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the topping evenly over the cooled cheesecake.
5. Chill the Cheesecake:
- Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
6. Serve:
- Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan.
- Remove the springform pan and slice the cheesecake into wedges.
- Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Pumpkin:
Pumpkin is a versatile ingredient that brings a rich, earthy flavor and a vibrant orange color to this cheesecake. It is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any dessert. When using canned pumpkin puree, make sure to choose one without added sugars or spices to control the flavor of your cheesecake.
Cream Cheese:
Cream cheese is the base of this cheesecake, providing a smooth and creamy texture. It’s essential to use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and consistency. Be sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
Spices:
A blend of warm spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, enhances the flavor of the pumpkin and gives the cheesecake a classic autumnal taste. These spices add depth and warmth to the dessert, making it perfect for the cooler months.
Graham Cracker Crust:
The graham cracker crust provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling. It’s slightly sweet and buttery, with a hint of cinnamon that complements the pumpkin flavor. The crust is easy to make and can be customized with different spices or by using different types of cookies.
This pumpkin cheesecake is a wonderful dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and pumpkin pie. It’s a perfect choice for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and festive treat. Enjoy!
