Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the warm, nutty aroma of pecans and the sweet scent of caramelized sugar. Every holiday season, she would prepare her signature Pecan Pie Cheesecake, a dessert so rich and creamy that it became a family favorite. I remember sitting by the kitchen counter, watching her mix the ingredients with love and care. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and today, I am thrilled to share it with you.
If you are looking for a dessert that combines the velvety smoothness of cheesecake with the crunchy, caramelized goodness of pecan pie, this Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the perfect choice. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe will surely impress.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Pecan Pie Topping:
- 3 and 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
Instructions for Pecan Pie Cheesecake
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy whipping cream until fully combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour before transferring it to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. In a small saucepan, combine melted butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the mixture becomes bubbly. Stir in cinnamon, heavy whipping cream, and toasted pecans. Allow the topping to cool to room temperature before spooning it over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate the cheesecake until ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cheesecake
1. The Perfect Combination of Flavors : The smooth and creamy cheesecake pairs beautifully with the caramelized pecan topping, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
2. Ideal for Any Occasion : Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a special family gathering, this cheesecake is always a crowd-pleaser.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly : You can prepare this cheesecake a day or two in advance, making it a stress-free dessert for entertaining guests.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients : Let your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream sit at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
Don’t Overmix the Batter : Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake. Mix just until combined.
Use a Water Bath : For an ultra-creamy texture, wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water while baking. This prevents cracks and ensures even cooking.
Chill Overnight : For the best flavor and texture, let the cheesecake chill in the fridge overnight before serving.
Serving and Storing Your Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle with extra caramel sauce for a more indulgent treat.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the perfect dessert experience.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the combination of Pecan Pie and Cheesecake in one decadent dessert. With a crunchy graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy filling, and a caramelized pecan topping, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine.
Now, it’s your turn to create this mouthwatering Pecan Pie Cheesecake and share it with your loved ones. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Happy baking!
Love this recipe? Find more tasty and cozy baking ideas on my Pinterest! Follow me here for inspiration: Pinterest – Feminologie.com
