24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
For the Pecan Pie Topping:
1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup corn syrup (or maple syrup)
¼ cup unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt
(Optional: whipped cream & extra pecans for garnish!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix graham crumbs, chopped pecans, melted butter, and brown sugar. Press firmly into the pan and up the sides.
Bake for 10 mins, then cool while preparing filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
Pour into the crust and smooth the top.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
Bake for 45-55 mins until edges are set but center slightly jiggles.
Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cool inside for 1 hour (prevents cracks).
Chill in fridge for at least 6 hours (overnight best).
4. Make the Pecan Pie Topping
In a saucepan, melt butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Simmer 2 mins.
Stir in pecans and vanilla, then cool slightly.
Spread over chilled cheesecake.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with whipped cream and extra pecans. Slice with a hot knife for clean cuts.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesecake
🔹 Room temperature ingredients – Prevents lumps.
🔹 Don’t overmix – Keeps texture creamy.
🔹 No peeking while baking! – Avoids cracks.
🔹 For extra flavor – Toast pecans before adding to topping.
Variations & Swaps
🍫 Chocolate twist – Add cocoa powder to crust or drizzle with chocolate.
🥃 Bourbon pecan – Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the topping.
🍁 Maple version – Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a store-bought crust?
A: Yes, but homemade tastes better!
Q: How long does it last?
A: 5 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen (without topping).
Q: Can I make it without sour cream?
A: Substitute Greek yogurt or heavy cream.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert—creamy, crunchy, and loaded with caramel-pecan goodness. One slice won’t be enough!