Ah, now we’re entering dessert heaven! A Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate combination of creamy cheesecake, nutty caramel pecan topping, and a buttery crust—a real showstopper. Here’s a detailed, foolproof recipe:
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream or heavy cream
For the pecan pie topping:
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup (60 ml) corn syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.
- Bake 8–10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.
2. Make the cheesecake filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each.
- Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream/heavy cream until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the cheesecake
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45–55 minutes, or until edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for best texture.
4. Prepare the pecan pie topping
- In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt. Heat gently until combined and slightly thickened.
- Stir in chopped pecans and let cool slightly.
5. Assemble
- Spread the pecan topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
6. Serve
- Slice with a hot knife (dip in warm water and wipe) for clean slices.
- Optional: drizzle with caramel sauce or add a dollop of whipped cream.
✅ Tips for perfection:
- Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven to prevent cracks.
- For a richer topping, lightly toast pecans before adding to the caramel mixture.
If you want, I can also give a “mini pecan pie cheesecake bars” version, which is easier to serve and even more decadent for parties.
Do you want me to do that version too?