Description
This best-ever pumpkin cheesecake features a spiced graham cracker crust and a rich, velvety pumpkin filling with warm autumn spices, all topped with whipped cream – a showstopping dessert perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Optional Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with foil to prevent leaks.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and flour. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Stir in sour cream until incorporated.
- Pour filling over the crust. Tap pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes or until the center is just set. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove and let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, creamy filling.
- For best results, use a water bath to prevent cracks.
- Pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, is essential for proper texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg