Pecan Pie Cheesecake (Rich, Nutty & Holiday-Perfect)

Welcome back to my kitchen — Chef James here 👨‍🍳
When you can’t decide between a classic Southern pecan pie and a rich, creamy cheesecake, this Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the answer. It brings together the best of both worlds: a buttery crust, silky cheesecake filling, and a gooey pecan topping that tastes like pure comfort.

I first developed this recipe during the holidays, when dessert tables were already full of favorites like Black Forest Cheesecake and indulgent crowd-pleasers such as Chocolate Orange Layer Cake. I wanted something familiar yet impressive — and this cheesecake delivered every time.

In the US, pecan desserts are deeply tied to family gatherings, especially in fall and winter. This Pecan Pie Cheesecake feels festive, nostalgic, and luxurious all at once, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion where dessert truly matters.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cheesecake

• Combines two classic desserts in one slice
• Ultra-creamy cheesecake with a gooey pecan topping
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays
• Rich but balanced — not overly sweet
• Always a show-stopper on the table

🥧 Would you serve this as the centerpiece dessert or alongside other holiday treats?

Ingredients Needed

For the crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

For the cheesecake filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the pecan pie topping:

• 1½ cups pecan halves
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👉 Tip: Toasting the pecans lightly deepens flavor — the same way browning butter enhances desserts like Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake

1. Make the crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter.
Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 10 minutes. Let cool.

2. Prepare the cheesecake filling

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Mix in sour cream and vanilla until just combined.

3. Bake the cheesecake

Pour filling over crust.
Bake at 325°F for 55–65 minutes, until edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.

4. Cool slowly

Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. Make the pecan topping

In a saucepan, simmer butter, brown sugar, and cream until thickened.
Stir in vanilla and pecans. Let cool slightly.

6. Assemble

Spoon pecan topping over chilled cheesecake just before serving.

👉 Chef James Tip: Slow cooling prevents cracks — patience that also pays off in layered desserts like Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Extra indulgent: Add a chocolate drizzle inspired by Peanut Butter Lasagna
• Coffee pairing: Serve slices with Caramel Macchiato Cookies
• Holiday dessert table: Pair with Gooey S’mores Rolls
• Lighter contrast: Balance with fruit-forward desserts like Blueberry Cream Cheese Dessert

This cheesecake also complements lighter brunch-style recipes such as Roasted Strawberry Whipped Ricotta Toast when served as part of a larger spread.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze slices up to 1 month (thaw overnight in fridge)
• Make-ahead: Ideal — flavor improves after chilling

For safe handling of dairy-based desserts, always follow USDA guidance: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/

FAQs – Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Does this taste more like pecan pie or cheesecake?
Both — creamy cheesecake balanced by gooey pecan topping.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it’s best made a day in advance.

Do I need a water bath?
Optional, but slow cooling works well.

Can I use store-bought pecan pie filling?
You can, but homemade topping tastes fresher.

Is this very sweet?
Rich but balanced — not cloying.

Best occasions to serve it?
Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family dinners — just like Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes shine in summer.

What to Serve With Pecan Pie Cheesecake

• Coffee or espresso
• Whipped cream
• Dessert tables with Chocolate Orange Layer Cake
• Cookie platters featuring Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies

Final Thoughts from Chef James

This Pecan Pie Cheesecake is everything a celebration dessert should be: rich, comforting, and unforgettable. It’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in your holiday rotation.

👉 Make it once, chill it well, and watch it become the most talked-about dessert on the table. 🥧🍰

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