Description

Pumpkin Cheesecake is the quintessential fall dessert that beautifully combines a rich, creamy pumpkin filling with aromatic spices, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for Thanksgiving or cozy gatherings, this delightful cheesecake will impress your guests and leave them craving more. With its stunning presentation and irresistible flavors, it's destined to become a seasonal favorite in your home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
3 large eggs
2 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into a greased springform pan and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the remaining sugar and mix in the pumpkin puree until fully combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in cinnamon and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth.
Gently fold in the sour cream and pour over the cooled crust.
Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door ajar for an hour.
Refrigerate for at least four hours before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
Calories: 319
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 297mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 82mg

Keywords: For variations, consider using a nut-based crust or adding chocolate chips to the filling for an unexpected twist. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.