Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavors of pecan pie, this dessert is the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Here’s how to create this show-stopping treat from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup Light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Butter, melted

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1/2 cup Butter, melted
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 3 Eggs
• 1 cup Light corn syrup
• 1 cup White granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups Chopped pecans

For the Cheesecake:

• 24 oz (3 packages) Cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
• 3 Eggs
• 1 cup Sour cream

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1/4 cup Butter, salted
• 1/2 cup Light brown sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream
• 1 cup Chopped pecans

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and light brown sugar. Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs are well-coated.
3. Form Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs until well combined. Add light corn syrup, white granulated sugar, and chopped pecans. Mix well.
2. Pour Filling: Pour the pecan filling over the cooled crust. Spread evenly and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Ingredients: Gradually add granulated sugar, salt, and all-purpose flour, mixing until well combined. Add vanilla extract and mix again.
3. Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, mix in sour cream until smooth.
4. Pour Cheesecake Batter: Pour the cheesecake batter over the pecan filling, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Water Bath: Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly browned.
3. Cool: Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Topping

1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Stir in light brown sugar and vanilla extract until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Incorporate Cream: Slowly add heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add Pecans: Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans. Let the topping cool slightly.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Add Topping: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the pecan topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
2. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with additional pecan halves.
3. Serve: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice and serve this delicious pecan pie cheesecake.

Tips for the Perfect Pecan Pie Cheesecake:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese, are at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth filling.
• Water Bath: The water bath helps to bake the cheesecake evenly and prevents cracking.
• Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open before transferring it to the refrigerator. This helps to prevent cracks.
• Topping: Ensure the pecan topping is cool enough to spread but still pourable for a smooth finish.

This Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two classic desserts, offering layers of flavor and texture that will impress any crowd. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every creamy, nutty bite!