Description
This creamy and rich Pumpkin Cheesecake combines the flavors of fall spices and smooth pumpkin puree for a perfect holiday dessert. Featuring a cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust and an optional topping of whipped cream, pecans, or caramel sauce, this classic American cheesecake is ideal for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion requiring a luscious, comforting treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- â…› teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Chopped pecans
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and mix well. Beat in the pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, and spices until fully blended. Fold in the sour cream just until combined for a smooth filling.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to eliminate air bubbles. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly puffed while the center is just set.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and open the door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to avoid cracking.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream, chopped pecans, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing for a smoother filling.
- To avoid cracks, do not overmix the batter and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside the oven.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
