Description
Spice up dessert nights with our mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Delight, a creamy autumn indulgence that blends classic flavors into one irresistible treat. Rich layers of smooth cheesecake and warm seasonal spices promise to elevate your holiday baking experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Spices and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C), creating an ideal baking environment for the cheesecake.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a mixing bowl, forming a cohesive crust mixture.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until it turns a light golden brown, then remove and allow to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy, eliminating any lumps.
- Gradually incorporate sugar into the cream cheese, mixing until fully integrated and silky.
- Blend in pumpkin puree, creating a rich and smooth consistency.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a uniform texture.
- Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, distributing the spices evenly throughout the mixture.
- Optional: Fold in a small amount of flour to help stabilize the cheesecake.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly to the edges of the pan.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, watching for slightly set edges with a subtle jiggle in the center.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour to prevent cracking.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set and develop its full flavor profile.
Notes
- Customize the Crust: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond or oat flour for those with dietary restrictions.
- Prevent Cracking: Avoid overmixing the batter and use a water bath during baking to create a smooth, crack-free surface.
- Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast spices briefly before adding to the filling to intensify their aromatic qualities and create a more complex taste profile.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This cheesecake actually improves in flavor when allowed to rest overnight, making it perfect for advance preparation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg