Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe

This Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate marriage of creamy New York-style cheesecake and classic, gooey pecan pie. It’s a decadent showstopper, perfect for sharing at special gatherings or sneaking a secret slice after dinner. With its buttery graham cracker crust, rich pecan pie layer, and tangy cheesecake finished off with a luxurious brown sugar–pecan topping, this dessert will have everyone swooning and asking for seconds. If you’re searching for a treat that’s pure comfort, a little fancy, and totally irresistible, you’ve just found your new obsession!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for Pecan Pie Cheesecake might already be waiting in your kitchen, but each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of texture and flavor. It’s a simple mix of pantry staples and a few special touches—together, they make magic happen!

• Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for a crunchy, buttery crust that holds up to all that luscious filling.
• Dark brown sugar: Used throughout, this brings a deep molasses sweetness that makes the flavors pop.
• Unsalted butter: Melted into the crust and toppings, it adds richness and a toasty flavor.
• Eggs: Essential for holding everything together, from the custardy filling to the creamy cheesecake.
• Dark corn syrup: Creates that signature gooey, sticky pecan pie texture.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweetness and gives a warm, aromatic note in every bite.
• Salt: A touch here and there balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Chopped pecans: The star of the show, their buttery crunch brings the pie and cheesecake together.
• Cream cheese: Softened to room temp for cloud-like cheesecake texture—go for full fat for best results.
• All-purpose flour: Just a bit stabilizes the cheesecake, keeping it ultra-smooth.
• Sour cream: Adds tang for a well-rounded, creamy cheesecake filling.
• Ground cinnamon (optional): For a hint of warmth and that cozy pie aroma.
• Heavy whipping cream: Creates a silky caramel-like pecan topping—don’t skip it!
• Aluminum foil: Not for eating, but to keep your cheesecake safe and dry in its water bath.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust

Start by lining a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and greasing the sides so your Pecan Pie Cheesecake comes out clean and beautiful. Combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl, mixing until everything resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of your pan, making sure it’s even. Bake for 10 minutes at 325°F to set the crust, then let it cool while you move on to the next layer. Don’t forget to wrap your pan in foil to guard against leaks in the water bath later!

Step 2: Make the Pecan Pie Filling

Lower the oven temperature to 300°F. In a saucepan, stir together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, melted butter, salt, and those glorious pecans. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly so nothing sticks or scorches. Simmer until thickened—about 5 to 7 minutes—but be careful not to overcook or the filling could get too firm. Pour this golden layer into your prepared crust.

Step 3: Mix Up the Cheesecake Layer

This is where the magic happens! Beat together the cream cheese, dark brown sugar, and flour on low speed until super smooth—scraping the bowl as you go. Add sour cream, vanilla, and cinnamon (if you’re using), then the eggs one by one, mixing slowly and being gentle to keep the batter creamy. Carefully pour this cheesecake mixture over the pecan pie layer, spreading it evenly without disturbing the filling underneath.

Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath

Place your foil-wrapped springform pan into a larger pan. Fill the outer pan with warm water so it comes halfway up the sides, creating steam for a perfectly smooth cheesecake (no cracks!). Bake for about 1 hour and 10–15 minutes—the center should be mostly set with a little jiggle. Turn off the oven, let the cheesecake sit with the oven door closed for 30 minutes, then crack the door for another 30 minutes to cool slowly. This helps prevent pesky cracks!

Step 5: Chill Until Firm

Take the cheesecake out of the oven and water bath, then cover and refrigerate until fully set—at least 5–6 hours or overnight if you can wait! This gives you clean slices and the best flavor.

Step 6: Make and Add the Topping

For the pièce de résistance, cook up your rich brown sugar pecan topping. Combine butter, brown sugar, cream, and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring it to a full boil, stirring for a minute or two, then take off the heat. Stir in pecans, salt, and vanilla for glorious nutty flavor. Let the topping cool until it’s spreadable but not hot, then pile it atop your chilled Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Now, you’re ready to dazzle!

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Garnishes

This luxurious cheesecake truly shines with a simple flourish. Try a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a few extra toasted pecans for crunch. If you really want to gild the lily, a little drizzle of caramel sauce or a shake of cinnamon over each slice looks and tastes stunning.

Side Dishes

While Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a decadent show-stealer, pairing it with something light and fresh helps round out your dessert table. Consider seasonal fruits like sliced apples, pears, or berries on the side. A cup of strong coffee or even a little bourbon-spiked whipped cream matches especially well with its sweet, nutty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Pecan Pie Cheesecake the centerpiece! Try slicing it into small bars for a dessert tray, or serve mini cheesecakes in jars for parties and potlucks. For a real Southern twist, offer each slice atop a pool of warm bourbon caramel sauce—talk about wow factor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pecan Pie Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge. Wrap the pan or individual slices tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep everything moist and fresh. It’ll stay luscious for 4–5 days—if you can resist that long!

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes like a dream! Wrap slices (or the whole cheesecake) well in plastic wrap, then foil, and label with the date. It’ll stay good for up to two months. When you’re craving a treat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

If you love your cheesecake just a little warm, zap an individual slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. For a chilled topping that’s a bit too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, or microwave just the topping for a few seconds to make it silky-smooth again before serving.

FAQs

Can I use light corn syrup instead of dark in the pecan pie filling?

Yes, you can substitute light corn syrup if that’s what you have on hand, but the result won’t be quite as rich or caramelly. Dark corn syrup adds depth and color to the pecan pie layer that truly captures the classic flavor.

Do I really need a water bath for baking this cheesecake?

It makes a big difference! The water bath helps cook the Pecan Pie Cheesecake gently and evenly, minimizing cracks and ensuring an ultra-creamy texture you’ll love.

Can I make Pecan Pie Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely, and it’s even better when made in advance! Prepare the cheesecake up to two days before your event, storing it covered in the fridge until ready to serve and add the topping just before your celebration.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?

The key is to look for a center that’s set but still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. Overbaking can cause cracks, so err on the side of a just-set, slightly wobbly middle.

What’s the best way to slice this cheesecake cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices. This will give you those pristine, bakery-style cuts with every piece—perfect for impressing your guests!

Final Thoughts

If you love both creamy cheesecake and gooey pecan pie, this Pecan Pie Cheesecake is an absolute must-try. The flavors and textures are out-of-this-world, and it’s a dessert that always brings people together. Gather your ingredients, get ready to wow your crowd, and don’t forget to sneak an extra slice for yourself—you deserve it!

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