If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect dessert that delivers both the creamy luxury of cheesecake and the caramelized crunch of pecan pie, this Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake is your answer. Built on a buttery graham cracker crust, layered with velvety cheesecake filling, and crowned with a glossy brown sugar pecan topping, this dessert is guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any celebration. Rich, indulgent, and irresistibly festive, it’s the kind of showstopper that guests remember long after the last bite.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is designed for anyone who wants a dessert that looks impressive and tastes unforgettable:
- Home bakers eager to surprise guests with a gourmet-style creation.
- Cheesecake enthusiasts craving a creative twist on their favorite treat.
- Holiday hosts preparing desserts for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or special celebrations.
- Anyone who loves the nutty, caramel flavors of pecan pie paired with silky cheesecake.
Why It’s Great
- Two Desserts in One: Combines the iconic flavors of pecan pie and the creamy charm of cheesecake.
- Perfect for Parties: A guaranteed hit at any event or holiday gathering.
- Rich, Smooth Texture: Creamy cheesecake meets crunchy toasted pecans for a perfect bite.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Chill it overnight for easier serving and stress-free hosting.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 113 g unsalted butter, melted
- 240 g graham cracker crumbs
- 75 g granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 904 g cream cheese, room temperature
- 200 g dark brown sugar
- 240 g sour cream, room temperature
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
For the Brown Sugar Pecan Topping
- 180 g pecan halves
- 56 g unsalted butter
- 100 g dark brown sugar
- 90 ml heavy cream
- 15 ml light corn syrup
- Pinch of salt
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To create this luscious pecan pie cheesecake, you’ll need:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Rubber spatula
- Roasting pan (for water bath)
- Medium saucepan (for pecan topping)
How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Lower oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- Beat the cream cheese until completely smooth.
- Add brown sugar, sour cream, vanilla, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Mix only until combined—do not overbeat.
- Add the eggs one at a time on low speed.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Place the springform pan inside a roasting pan and pour hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and salt.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the pecan halves. Allow to cool slightly.
Step 5: Assemble
- Pour the cooled pecan topping over the chilled cheesecake.
- Slice cleanly with a hot knife and serve.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
FAQ
Can I make this without a water bath?
Yes. A water bath helps prevent cracks, but you may simply place a pan of hot water on a lower oven rack if you prefer.
Can I use store-bought pecan pie filling?
You can, but the homemade topping gives the dessert a fresher, richer flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Just swap the graham crackers for gluten-free crumbs.
Can I replace corn syrup?
Absolutely. Maple syrup or honey will work, though the topping may be slightly less glossy.
Conclusion
This Pecan Pie Cheesecake is more than a dessert—it’s a centerpiece worthy of holidays, celebrations, and special family moments. With its buttery crust, creamy filling, and caramelized pecan topping, every slice delivers a luxurious mix of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this cheesecake guarantees compliments and empty plates.
