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A whole, freshly baked creamy pumpkin cheesecake cooling on a wire rack. This homemade cheesecake is perfectly smooth and has no cracks.
FL Recipes

Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to a Creamy, Crack-Free Slice of Heaven

This foolproof pumpkin cheesecake recipe delivers an ultra-creamy, perfectly spiced dessert with a flawless, crack-free top. The perfect show-stopper for Thanksgiving or any fall occasion.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

For the Graham Cracker Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs from about 12 full sheets
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 32 ounces cream cheese full-fat, block-style, at room temperature
  • 15 ounces pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs at room temperature
  • 0.5 cup sour cream at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 0.125 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch Springform Pan
  • 1 Stand Mixer
  • 1 Large Roasting Pan
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Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap a 9-inch springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil, ensuring the bottom and sides are well covered to prevent water from seeping in.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until fully combined. Press mixture firmly onto the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides of the prepared springform pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool on a wire rack while you prepare the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
  4. In a large bowl with a stand mixer and paddle attachment, beat the room temperature cream cheese on low speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
  5. Add the granulated and brown sugars, mixing on low speed until just combined. Add the pumpkin puree, sour cream, vanilla, flour, and spices. Mix on low until smooth. Scrape the bowl again.
  6. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until the yolk disappears. Do not overmix.
  7. Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Place the springform pan into a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan to come about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
  8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
  9. Turn off the oven and crack open the door, leaving the cheesecake inside to cool for 1 hour. This prevents cracking.
  10. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath. Run a knife around the edge and cool completely at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalProtein: 8gFat: 38gFiber: 2g

Notes

Room Temperature is Key: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
Water Bath is Essential: Do not skip the water bath; it's the secret to a creamy, crack-free cheesecake.
Chill Thoroughly: For the best texture and flavor, chill the cheesecake overnight. This allows it to fully set.
Keyword fall baking,pumpkin cheesecake,thanksgiving dessert

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