Description
Pumpkin Cheesecake is a creamy, velvety fall dessert that blends the rich texture of New York–style cheesecake with the warm flavors of pumpkin pie. Featuring a pumpkin-spiced graham cracker crust, a smooth pumpkin-infused filling, and a topping of whipped cream and caramel sauce, this showstopper is perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn celebration.
Ingredients
Crust:
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1 cup graham cracker crumbs
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2½ tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1½ tbsp granulated sugar
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⅛ tsp pumpkin spice powder
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⅛ tsp salt
Cheesecake Batter:
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16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
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2 large eggs
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1 large egg yolk
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1 cup pumpkin puree
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⅔ cup granulated sugar
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1½ tbsp all-purpose flour
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½ tbsp pumpkin spice powder
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ tsp salt
Toppings:
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Whipped cream
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Caramel sauce
Instructions
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Prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line bottom of a 7-inch springform pan with parchment. Wrap outside with two layers of foil.
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Make crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, pumpkin spice, and salt until texture resembles wet sand. Press into bottom and sides of pan. Bake 8–10 minutes. Reduce oven to 325°F (163°C).
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Make filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs and yolk one at a time. Mix in pumpkin puree, sugar, flour, pumpkin spice, vanilla, and salt until creamy. Scrape bowl halfway. Reduce speed and mix 1–2 minutes to release air bubbles.
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Assemble: Pour filling into crust. Tap gently to remove bubbles. Place pan in a larger roasting pan and add hot water halfway up sides.
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Bake: Bake 75 minutes at 325°F. Turn oven off, crack door, and let cool inside for 1 hour.
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Chill: Remove foil, cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
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Serve: Slice with a hot knife, wiping between cuts. Top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice.
Notes
Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth texture.
A water bath prevents cracks and keeps the cheesecake creamy.
Avoid overmixing once eggs are added.
Cheesecake flavor improves after chilling overnight.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American