Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups Graham cracker crumbs, finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons Butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons Sugar
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)
Cheesecake Base
- 24 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Sugar
- 3 large Eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- ½ cup Sour cream
Pumpkin Swirl Mixture
- ¾ cup Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon Pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
- 1 large Egg yolk
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon if using. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased springform pan to form a crust. Chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
- Prepare the pumpkin swirl mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and egg yolk until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake base evenly over the chilled crust. Spoon dollops of the pumpkin mixture on top of the cheesecake batter. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the pumpkin mixture into the cheesecake base to create a marbled effect, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the cheesecake: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the springform pan on the center rack and bake for approximately 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to keep the cheesecake creamy.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about an hour. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Serve: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice the cheesecake, and serve chilled. Optionally garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and even baking.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid cracks in the cheesecake.
- Ensure the pumpkin puree is pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.
- For easy removal, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake after baking and cooling to prevent sticking.
- If desired, a water bath can be used during baking to prevent cracking.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American