Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe brings together the delightful flavors of gooey caramel pecan pie and tangy cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests. With its creamy texture and crunchy topping, this recipe will become a fast favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich cream cheese and sweet pecan topping creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up this dessert without any hassle.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a birthday party, this cheesecake is sure to steal the show.
- Decadent Texture: The creamy cheesecake paired with the crunchy pecan topping delivers a delightful contrast that everyone will love.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields 24 bars, making it ideal for parties or potlucks.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- 9X13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool makes crushing graham crackers and mixing the cheesecake batter quick and easy.
- Baking dish: A 9X13 inch dish is perfect for even cooking and easy slicing into bars.
Ingredients
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe – Gooey caramel Pecan Pie meets tangy classic Cheesecake in this fabulous holiday dessert mashup!
For the Crust
- 13 whole graham crackers
- ¾ cup pecan halves
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Pie Topping
- 1 ¾ cups pecan halves (chopped)
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Set out a 9X13 inch baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- Use a large food processor to crush the graham crackers, pecans, and brown sugar into fine crumbs.
- Pour in the melted butter and pulse again until well combined.
- Transfer the crumb mixture into the baking dish and press it down firmly into an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Clean out the food processor bowl.
- Add in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, eggs, flour, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Process until very smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the baked crust.
- Tap the dish gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Prepare Pecan Pie Topping
- In a small sauce pot over medium heat, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, cinnamon, and salt.
- Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Pour the warm pecan topping over your baked cheesecake using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set completely.
Step 7: Serve
When ready to serve, cut into bars using a serrated knife. To ensure clean cuts, wipe your knife with a wet paper towel between slices.
Now you have a stunning Pecan Pie Cheesecake ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Serving your Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering or celebration. Here are some creative ideas to make your dessert stand out.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Serve with vanilla or caramel ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm pecan topping.
Fresh Berries
- Add a side of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to balance the sweetness and add a pop of color to your plate.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzling melted chocolate over the cheesecake enhances its decadence. Use dark or milk chocolate according to your preference.
Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can enhance the flavors even more, making each bite irresistible.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The bitterness of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweet flavors of the cheesecake.
How to Perfect Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe, consider these helpful tips.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature for a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid introducing too much air, which can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
Bake in a Water Bath: Placing your baking dish in a water bath helps maintain moisture and prevents cracking on the surface.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow enough chilling time after baking. This ensures the cheesecake is firm and easier to slice.
Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh pecans give better flavor and texture than older ones, enhancing the overall taste of your dessert.
Slice with Care: Use a serrated knife for clean cuts, wiping it between slices to maintain neat edges.
Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Pecan Pie Cheesecake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
Classic Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the rich cheesecake.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish offers complementary flavors that enhance the overall experience without overwhelming sweetness.
Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup serves as a comforting start before diving into dessert.
Cheese Plate: An assortment of cheeses can provide savory bites that balance out the sweetness of your cheesecake.
Fruit Tart: A fruit tart adds an additional layer of fruitiness that pairs nicely with pecan flavors.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness from cranberry sauce creates a lovely contrast against the sweet cheesecake.
Bread Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be enjoyed before dessert, providing a simple yet satisfying addition to any meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pecan Pie Cheesecake can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the perfect dessert.
- Skipping the crust chilling: Not chilling the crust can lead to a soggy bottom. Make sure to chill it for at least 10 minutes after baking.
- Overmixing the cheesecake batter: This can introduce too much air and cause cracks. Mix until just combined and smooth.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your batter. Always allow your ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
- Ignoring baking time: Underbaking or overbaking can ruin your cheesecake. Keep an eye on it and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
- Serving without proper cooling: Cutting into the cheesecake too soon can lead to messy slices. Allow it to cool and set properly in the fridge for at least two hours.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The cheesecake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a nonstick pan over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe:
Can I make this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before serving. Just keep it stored in the refrigerator.
What if my cheesecake cracks?
Cracks often occur from overmixing or sudden temperature changes. To avoid this, mix gently and let it cool gradually.
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when my cheesecake is done?
Your cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when you shake it gently.
Can I customize the toppings of my Pecan Pie Cheesecake?
Definitely! Feel free to add caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, or fresh fruit on top for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe is an incredible dessert that combines two favorites into one delightful treat. Its creamy texture paired with crunchy pecans creates a perfect balance of flavors. You can also customize it with various toppings or mix-ins according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe, where gooey caramel pecan pie meets smooth and tangy cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for any festive gathering, from holiday celebrations to family dinners, guaranteed to wow your guests with its creamy texture and crunchy topping. Each bar delivers a flavor explosion that combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweet nuttiness of pecans. Easy to make and ideal for serving a crowd, this cheesecake will quickly become a favorite at your table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 13 whole graham crackers
- ¾ cup pecan halves (for crust)
- ¾ cup melted butter
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¾ cups chopped pecan halves (for topping)
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a food processor, combine graham crackers, pecans, and brown sugar until finely crushed. Add melted butter and mix well. Press into the bottom of the prepared dish and bake for 10 minutes.
- Clean the processor bowl, then blend cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, eggs, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Pour over the baked crust.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until set in the center; let cool slightly.
- For the topping, heat chopped pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, cinnamon, and salt in a saucepan until boiling; stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour warm topping over cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
