Description

A rich and creamy pumpkin cheesecake with warm fall spices and a smooth, crack-free top, baked gently without a water bath for an easy yet festive dessert.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

5 tablespoons granulated sugar

6 tablespoons butter, melted

32 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup pure pumpkin

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 teaspoon cinnamon

4 large eggs, room temperature

Optional cheesecake toppings (whipped cream, caramel sauce, pecans, etc.)

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Instructions

Place the oven rack in the center and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand.
Press the crust firmly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 7 minutes, then remove and set aside.
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese for about 30 seconds until smooth.
Add the sugar and mix until fully combined, scraping down the bowl as needed.
Mix in vanilla extract, pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon until evenly incorporated.
Lightly beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then slowly add them to the cheesecake mixture on low speed, mixing just until incorporated.
Tap the bowl on the counter for 30–45 seconds to release air bubbles.
Pour the batter into the crust and smooth the top.
Bake at 325°F for 40 minutes.
Reduce oven temperature to 250°F (120°C) and bake for an additional 45 minutes.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 30 minutes without opening the door.
Crack the oven door and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour.
Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 3–4 hours.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

Gradual temperature changes help prevent cracks without a water bath.

Do not overmix after adding eggs to maintain a creamy texture.

The cheesecake will be very full; pour carefully.

Chilling overnight gives the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 9 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 460
Sugar: 34 g
Sodium: 350 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0.4 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 165 mg