Velvety Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 12
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Welcome to the cozy world of Velvety Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake! Perfect for fall gatherings or a special treat, this cheesecake combines creamy texture with warm spice notes. It's a delightful twist on a classic that's sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients for Velvety Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

The graham cracker crumbs form the buttery base that supports the cheesecake's rich filling. A bit of granulated sugar sweetens the crust just right. Unsalted butter helps bind the crust together and adds a luscious flavor.

The heart of our cheesecake is the cream cheese, providing the creamy, tangy base. Granulated sugar enhances the sweetness, while vanilla extract adds depth. Each egg contributes to a smooth and set texture.

Pumpkin puree infuses the cheesecake with its distinctive flavor and color. A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates the iconic pumpkin spice aroma, and a pinch of salt balances the flavors. Finally, heavy cream adds a touch of richness and helps achieve that velvety texture.

Tips & Tricks

  • For the smoothest cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
  • To avoid cracks, don't over-bake; the center should still have a slight wobble.
  • Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake after baking to prevent sticking and cracking as it cools.

Serving Suggestions

Top your slice of cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of indulgence. It's also delightful with a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a pairing, consider serving it alongside a spiced chai latte or a glass of dessert wine to complement its flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure to puree it until smooth and remove excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Velvety Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is a crucial step, as a well-heated oven ensures even baking. Next, grab a mixing bowl and combine your graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup of sugar and melted butter. Stir until everything is nicely moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until it's smooth and creamy. This might take a few minutes, but patience is key to avoid lumps. Add the vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one by one, ensuring each is fully mixed in before adding the next.

Mix in the pumpkin puree along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. These spices will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent. Finally, stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is uniformly smooth and creamy.

Pour your filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. You'll know it's done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Once baked, let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open for an hour to avoid any cracking. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set completely.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
  • Easy-to-follow steps, even for beginners.
  • Ideal dessert for autumn and holiday festivities.
  • The cheesecake stays impressively smooth and crack-free.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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 ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup heavy cream

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract, then beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Blend in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until well combined.
6. Stir in heavy cream until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
7. Pour filling over prepared crust and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set.
9. Allow to cool in the oven with the door slightly cracked for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

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