Description
Delightful classic pumpkin cheesecake blends autumn’s warmest spices with creamy Philadelphia cream cheese for an irresistible dessert. Rich, smooth filling nestled in a graham cracker crust promises pure comfort that beckons you to savor each luxurious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Base:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a springform pan by creating a crumbly foundation using graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, pressing firmly to form an even base.
- Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese and sugar until achieving a velvety smooth consistency.
- Incorporate pumpkin puree, aromatic pumpkin pie spice, and fragrant vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, blending thoroughly.
- Gently fold eggs into the batter, one at a time, ensuring minimal mixing to maintain a delicate texture.
- Carefully transfer the pumpkin-infused filling over the prepared crust, creating an even layer.
- Bake at 325F (160C) for 50-60 minutes, watching for a slightly wobbly center that indicates perfect doneness.
- Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, preventing potential cracking.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or ideally overnight to develop rich, deep flavors and achieve optimal set.
- Before serving, release the springform pan sides and slice with a clean, warm knife for pristine presentation.
Notes
- Prevent Cracks: Create a water bath by placing the springform pan inside a larger baking dish filled with hot water to ensure even baking and prevent surface cracking.
- Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast graham cracker crumbs briefly before mixing with butter to intensify the nutty, caramelized undertones in the crust.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap traditional graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for celiac-friendly version.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cheesecake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, allowing flavors to meld and making party planning easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 427 kcal
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 323 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 111 mg