Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Treat your taste buds to the ultimate dessert experience with this Pecan Pie Cheesecake. This decadent blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet, nutty pecan pie creates an irresistible combination that is perfect for holidays and special occasions. The buttery graham cracker crust adds the finishing touch to this show-stopping dessert that will impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds.
This Pecan Pie Cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one elegant treat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent flavor combination of cheesecake and pecan pie
- Perfect for special occasions and holidays
- Easy to follow recipe
About Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Pecan Pie Cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one delicious offering. The rich, creamy texture of cheesecake perfectly complements the sweet, nutty flavor of pecan pie, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. This dessert boasts a unique taste profile that brings warmth and comfort, ideal for family gatherings or holiday celebrations. With the right balance of sweetness and richness, it’s effortless to see why this treat is gaining popularity as a go-to dessert option.
Not only is the flavor out of this world, but the versatility of Pecan Pie Cheesecake is another reason to love it. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences, whether that means adding chocolate chips, swirling in caramel, or even incorporating seasonal spices. This adaptability ensures that the cheesecake remains relevant throughout the year, delighting everyone's palate regardless of the occasion.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Pecan Pie Cheesecake experience, consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture serves as a delightful contrast to the dense cheesecake. You can also drizzle some caramel sauce or chocolate sauce on top for added indulgence. For a touch of sophistication, garnish with a few whole pecans or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavor profile.
Pair your cheesecake with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine to round out the experience. The warmth of a freshly brewed beverage alongside the chilled cheesecake creates a pleasing temperature contrast that can be very appealing at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Storage and Preparation Tips
Storing your Pecan Pie Cheesecake properly will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Once cooled, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to five days. To ensure freshness, consider freezing leftovers as well. Slice the cheesecake, wrap individual pieces in plastic, and store them in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
When preparing this dessert, make sure your cream cheese is adequately softened before mixing. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy filling. Additionally, mixing the eggs in one at a time ensures that your batter remains light and airy, yielding a fluffy cheesecake. By following these simple tips, you're sure to make a stunning Pecan Pie Cheesecake that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Steps
Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a saucepan, combine chopped pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Cook on medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the pecan topping over the cheesecake filling. Bake at 350°F for 60 minutes, or until the center is set. Let cool before serving.
Nutritional Information
When indulging in desserts, it's essential to be mindful of nutritional content. Pecan Pie Cheesecake, while delicious, is a dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation. Each slice packs a savory combination of protein from the cream cheese and eggs as well as healthy fats from the pecans, which are also high in antioxidants. However, this cheesecake also contains sugars and carbs from the crust and filling, so moderation is key for maintaining a balanced diet.
To make a lighter version, consider swapping out full-fat cream cheese for a reduced-fat option, and use a sugar substitute to cut down on calories. These changes can help you enjoy this decadent dessert without straying too far from dietary goals.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best aspects of Pecan Pie Cheesecake is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a hint of bourbon for a richer taste, or blend in chocolate chips for a deeper flavor profile. You can even use different nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, if pecans aren't a favorite.
For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating pumpkin puree into the cheesecake filling for a festive fall treat. Topping the cheesecake with seasonal fruits, such as cranberries or poached pears, can also provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness and create a stunning visual presentation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Treat your taste buds to the ultimate dessert experience with this Pecan Pie Cheesecake. This decadent blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet, nutty pecan pie creates an irresistible combination that is perfect for holidays and special occasions. The buttery graham cracker crust adds the finishing touch to this show-stopping dessert that will impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
In a saucepan, combine chopped pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Cook on medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly.
Pour the pecan topping over the cheesecake filling. Bake at 350°F for 60 minutes, or until the center is set. Let cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Sugar: 30g