Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A rich, nutty dessert that combines cheesecake creamy with pecan pie crunchy

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Introduction

This Pecan Pie Cheesecake brings two favorite desserts together. Creamy cheesecake sits under a sticky pecan topping. It looks impressive but is easy to make. 🧀🥧🌰

Why make this recipe?

• You get the best of both worlds: the smooth, tangy cheesecake and the sweet, nutty pecan pie topping. 😋
• It’s a great showstopper for holidays, parties, or a cozy family dinner. 🎉
• You can make it ahead and relax before guests arrive. ⏲️

How to prepare Pecan Pie Cheesecake

• Make the crust from crushed graham crackers and melted butter. 🍪🧈
• Whip the cream cheese with sugar and eggs until smooth. 🧀🍚🥚
• Bake the cheesecake gently, then add the pecan topping and bake a little more. 🔥🌰
• Chill fully so slices cut cleanly. ❄️🍰

Ingredients:

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers 🍪
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened 🧀
• 1 cup sugar 🍚
• 3 large eggs 🥚
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
• 1 cup chopped pecans 🌰
• 1 cup light corn syrup 🥫
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar 🟤

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 🔥
2. Make the crust: mix 1 cup crushed graham crackers 🍪 with 1/4 cup melted butter 🧈 until crumbs hold together. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. (Reserve remaining melted butter for the topping.) Press firmly and bake 8 minutes. Remove and let cool while you make the filling. ⏲️
3. Lower oven to 325°F (160°C). 🔽
4. Make the cheesecake filling: beat 2 cups softened cream cheese 🧀 with 1 cup sugar 🍚 until smooth. Add 3 eggs one at a time 🥚, mixing after each. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦. Pour filling over the cooled crust. 🥄
5. Bake cheesecake in the oven at 325°F for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly. 🔥⏲️
6. While the cheesecake bakes, make the pecan topping: mix 1 cup light corn syrup 🥫, 1/4 cup dark brown sugar 🟤, and the rest of the melted butter 🧈 (about 2 tablespoons). Stir in 1 cup chopped pecans 🌰. If you like, add a pinch of salt. 🧂
7. When the cheesecake is done, carefully spoon the pecan topping over the warm cheesecake. Spread gently so nuts cover the top. 🥄🌰
8. Return the pan to the oven and bake 10–12 more minutes, until the topping is bubbly. 🔥
9. Cool the cheesecake on a wire rack for 1 hour, then chill in the fridge at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before removing the springform ring and slicing. ❄️🍰

How to serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake

• Slice with a hot, clean knife for neat pieces (run under hot water and dry between cuts). 🔪💧
• Serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream and extra pecans on top. 🍦🌰
• Offer coffee or a dessert wine alongside. ☕🍷

How to store Pecan Pie Cheesecake

• Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. 🧊
• Freeze for up to 2 months: wrap slices tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge. ❄️➡️🧊

Tips for preparing Pecan Pie Cheesecake

• Use room-temperature cream cheese for a lump-free filling. 🧀
• Beat just until combined — overbeating can add air and cause cracks. 🥄
• Do a water bath (wrap pan bottom in foil and place in a larger pan with hot water) to reduce cracking. 💧🛁
• Let it chill fully before slicing so the topping sets and slices cleanly. ❄️

Variations (if applicable)

• Chocolate Pecan: mix 1/4 cup cocoa into the crust or drizzle melted chocolate on top. 🍫
• Bourbon Pecan: add 1–2 tablespoons bourbon to the pecan topping for a warm flavor. 🥃
• Maple Pecan: swap some corn syrup for pure maple syrup for a maple twist. 🍁

FAQs (at least three FAQs)

Q: Can I use a regular pie pan instead of a springform pan?
A: Yes, but a springform pan makes it easier to remove without breaking the sides. If you use a pie pan, chill well and serve from the pan. 🥧

Q: Why did my cheesecake crack?
A: Cracks often come from overbaking or beating too much air into the batter. Try a water bath and bake until the center is just set. 💧

Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Absolutely. Make it the day before — it tastes even better after chilling overnight. ✅

Q: Can I toast the pecans first?
A: Yes — toasting pecans for 5–7 minutes on a baking sheet boosts their flavor. Let them cool before mixing into the topping. 🔥🌰

Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Use gluten-free graham crackers or substitute with crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust. 🍪✅

Conclusion

If you want more versions or step-by-step photos, check these helpful recipes: Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe – Baked By An Introvert, Pecan Pie Cheesecake Recipe – Sally’s Baking, and Pecan Pie Cheesecake for Thanksgiving Dessert!. These pages offer variations and tips you may find useful.