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Pecan Pie Cheesecake

This Pecan Pie Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the gooey sweetness of pecan pie. It’s a show-stopping holiday dessert with layers of buttery crust, velvety filling, and caramelized pecan topping.
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time1 hour 35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: christmas cheesecake, holiday cheesecake, pecan pie cheesecake, Thanksgiving dessert
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 460kcal
Author: Michonne Zendaya
Cost: 18

Equipment

  • springform pan (9-inch)
  • mixing bowls
  • electric mixer
  • saucepan
  • roasting pan (for water bath)
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • oven

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for topping)
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with foil to prepare for a water bath.
  • In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream until combined.
  • Pour filling over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan and pour hot water halfway up the sides for a water bath.
  • Bake for 60–70 minutes until the center is just set. Turn off oven and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. Then remove and cool completely before chilling overnight.
  • For the pecan topping: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Add cream, vanilla, and salt. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened (3–4 minutes).
  • Stir in pecan halves and simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and coated. Let cool slightly before spooning over chilled cheesecake.

Notes

Use a springform pan for easy release, and bake in a water bath to prevent cracking. Cool completely before adding the pecan topping. This cheesecake tastes even better the next day after chilling overnight.