Pumpkin Spice Christmas Cheesecake (Printable Version)
Rich creamy cheesecake with festive pumpkin spice on a spiced graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream.
# What You'll Need:
→ For the Crust
01 - 7 oz graham crackers, crushed
02 - 7 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
04 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
→ For the Cheesecake Filling
05 - 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 cup pumpkin purée
08 - 3 large eggs
09 - 1/3 cup sour cream
10 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
11 - 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
12 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
13 - ¼ tsp salt
→ For the Topping
14 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
15 - 2 tbsp powdered sugar
16 - ½ tsp vanilla extract
17 - ½ tsp ground cinnamon, optional for garnish
# How To Make:
01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the base with parchment paper.
02 - Combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well mixed. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
03 - Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
04 - Add pumpkin purée, eggs, sour cream, flour, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until just combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
05 - Pour filling over the cooled crust. Tap pan gently to release air bubbles. Bake for 50–60 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly wobbly.
06 - Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour inside. Remove and cool completely at room temperature.
07 - Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
08 - Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe onto chilled cheesecake. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
09 - Release springform ring, slice, and serve.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The combination of creamy cheesecake and warm pumpkin spice creates pure comfort in every bite
- It looks impressive on a holiday table but comes together easier than you would expect
- The spiced graham crust adds a crunchy contrast that makes each slice unforgettable
02 -
- Room temperature ingredients are non negotiable for a smooth, lump free filling
- Opening the oven door too early can cause cracks, so resist the urge to peek
- The slight wobble in the center is perfect since it continues cooking while cooling
03 -
- Place a pan of water on the lower oven rack to create a humid environment that prevents cracks
- For extra spice depth, add a pinch of cloves or ginger to the crust mixture