Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake is a blend of velvety cheesecake and the warm embrace of pumpkin spice, it’s the embodiment of fall on a plate.
Why I Loved This Recipe
This Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake has been a staple in my family for years.
The rich, creamy texture of the cheesecake combined with the aromatic allure of pumpkin spice never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face.
The crust, made from a blend of graham crackers and warm spices, adds the perfect crunch to complement the luscious filling.
It’s a dessert that not only tastes incredible but also captures the essence of the season, making it a true comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of the pumpkin spice craze that sweeps us off our feet every fall, this cheesecake is an absolute must-try.
Imagine a symphony of flavors – the tangy creaminess of cheesecake harmonizing with the earthy warmth of pumpkin spice. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering or a fall-themed dinner party, this Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake is sure to steal the show and leave your guests craving for more.
Recipe Notes
Before we dive into the delightful details, here are a few pointers to ensure your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake turns out as dreamy as you imagine:
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are all at room temperature. This ensures a smooth and lump-free filling.
• Patience is a Virtue: Baking this cheesecake in a water bath might take a little extra time, but trust me, it’s worth every minute. The steam helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
• Chill Out: Allow your cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the flavors to fully develop and the texture to set perfectly.
Helpful Kitchen Tools
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Making Of Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake
• Prepare the Crust:
1. Get your oven all warmed up to a toasty 325°F (165°C).
2. Let’s start by creating the base of this wonderful creation. In a bowl, mingle the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and melted butter. Make sure those crumbs get a good coating of all the goodness.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the embrace of a greased 9-inch springform pan, shaping it into the perfect crust. After 10 minutes of baking, let it cool down a notch.
• Prepare the Filling:
1. Time to work some magic. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip that softened cream cheese until it turns into a creamy dream.
2. Gradually invite the sugar to the party and let them dance together until they’re beautifully combined.
3. Now, let the vanilla extract, eggs (one by one), and pumpkin puree join the mix, creating a harmonious blend that’s smooth and luscious.
4. Sprinkle in the enchanting pumpkin spice and a dash of salt, and mix until this filling becomes the epitome of velvety perfection.
• Assemble and Bake:
1. Let’s get things cozy. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with a shield of aluminum foil, ensuring that not a drop of water sneaks in during the water bath.
2. Place this prepared pan into a larger baking dish, and with gentle care, pour hot water into the larger dish until it cozies up to the sides of the springform pan.
3. The star of the show, our creamy filling, deserves the spotlight now. Gently let it flow onto the cooled crust, as if settling into its luxurious home.
4. To ensure it’s all smooth sailing, give the pan a friendly tap on the counter to free any pesky air bubbles.
5. Let the baking commence! Around 1 hour in the oven should do the trick. Look for those edges to set while the center maintains a playful jiggle.
• Chill and Serve:
1. Now that the oven’s had its moment, turn it off and let the cheesecake enjoy some lingering warmth for about an hour with the oven door slightly ajar.
2. It’s time to set our creation free from its water bath. Allow it to cool like a superstar on a wire rack.
3. The anticipation is real, but patience is key. Pop your masterpiece into the refrigerator for a solid 4 hours, or go all the way and leave it overnight.
The reward? A cheesecake that’s chilled to perfection and ready to dazzle your taste buds.
Pro Tips
• To achieve a silky-smooth filling, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
• When adding the eggs, beat them in one at a time and only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• For the perfect water bath, tightly wrap the springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent any water from seeping in.
Variations / Options / Add-Ins
Customize your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake with these delicious variations:
• Swirls of Delight: Swirl in a ribbon of caramel or chocolate sauce into the filling before baking for an extra layer of decadence.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture and nutty flavor.
Storage Tips
Keep your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake fresh and delicious:
• Store any leftover cheesecake slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
FAQs
Q. Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree can add a unique depth of flavor to your cheesecake.
Q. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the graham cracker crumbs for your favorite gluten-free cookie or cracker crumbs.
Q. How do I prevent cracks on the surface of the cheesecake?
Baking the cheesecake in a water bath and allowing it to cool gradually can help prevent cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter.
Q. Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?
While making the crust from scratch adds a wonderful homemade touch, a store-bought crust can be a convenient alternative.
So there you have it – my cherished recipe for Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake. It’s a dessert that encapsulates the flavors and feelings of autumn in every bite. I hope you enjoy creating and savoring this delightful treat as much as I do. Happy baking, friends!
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
For the Filling:
- 3 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sugar and beat until well combined.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, eggs (one at a time), and pumpkin puree.
- Sprinkle in the pumpkin spice and salt, and mix until the filling is velvety and uniform.
Assemble and Bake
- Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Carefully pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust.
- Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake for about 1 hour, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Chill and Serve
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for about an hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.