Description
This creamy and spiced pumpkin cheesecake combines the best of pumpkin pie and classic cheesecake, baked on a buttery graham cracker crust for the perfect fall dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ cup sour cream
- Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened, then press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
- Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and pour in hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Top with whipped cream before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter with no lumps.
- A water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American