Pumpkin Cheesecake (No Water Bath)

As the scent of autumn envelops our homes, there’s nothing quite like a slice of Pumpkin Cheesecake to summon warmth and comfort. The rich aroma of spiced cream cheese fills the air, teasing your taste buds before the first bite. Picture this: a velvety smooth filling infused with pure pumpkin, perfectly balanced with fragrant spices, nestled within a buttery graham cracker crust. Each forkful melts effortlessly in your mouth, a delightful contrast to the crisp fall air outside.

This recipe is the epitome of indulgence for cozy gatherings, special celebrations, or simply treating yourself on a quiet fall afternoon. Whether it’s a lively Thanksgiving feast or a serene Sunday morning, this Pumpkin Cheesecake promises to elevate every moment.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours, including chilling
Servings: 12 slices
Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Highlights

Each slice of this decadent cheesecake brings not only joy but also a nutritious punch:

Calories: 350
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 18g

The nutritional data is based on verified resources, with the calorie count giving you a clearer picture of what you’re indulging in (CDC, USDA).

Why Make This Recipe

Can you recall the excitement of autumn harvests? The cozy nostalgia that wafts in with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg? This Pumpkin Cheesecake captures that essence, creating a culinary experience that is both heartwarming and soul-satisfying. It’s perfect for festive family gatherings where laughter echoes and stories flow. This creamy delight creates a communal moment, a shared experience that connects us to the season and each other.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to create your dreamy Pumpkin Cheesecake, sans the stress of a water bath:

Ingredients:

1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs (or gingersnaps for extra spice)
5 tablespoons granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
32 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup pure pumpkin (preferably Libby’s brand)
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 large eggs (at room temperature)
Optional toppings: whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or pecans

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and place an oven rack in the center.
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter until well combined, resembling damp sand.
Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 7 minutes, then set aside.
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F.
Using a stand mixer or large bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until creamy, about 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides and mix in 1 ¼ cups sugar until smooth.
Add in vanilla, pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Mix until completely combined.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until well combined. With the mixer on low, slowly add the eggs to the cream cheese mixture, stopping as soon as they are incorporated.
Tap the bowl on the counter for 30-45 seconds to release air bubbles, then pour the filling into the crust.
Bake for 40 minutes at 325°F, then reduce the temperature to 250°F and bake for an additional 45 minutes.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 30 minutes without opening the door. Cool for an additional hour before removing from the oven.
Allow it to reach room temperature for 3-4 hours, then cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Serve chilled, slicing with a hot, wet knife for clean edges.

Pro Tips:

Avoid overmixing once the eggs are added to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
Letting your cheesecake cool gradually in the oven helps reduce the chance of cracks.

Best Pairings

This enchanting Pumpkin Cheesecake is delightful on its own, but it truly shines when paired with:

A drizzle of caramel sauce or sharp whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness and creaminess.
A hot cup of spiced chai or coffee can enhance the seasonal flavors and offer a warming contrast.
For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or chocolate shavings on top.

Storage Instructions

To fully enjoy this cheesecake later, adhere to these storage guidelines:

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed chilled. Store for up to 2 hours at room temperature.
Refrigeration: Cover it well with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Keeps fresh in the fridge for 5-7 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer for your sweet tooth’s future cravings.

Insider Secrets

For a show-stopping Pumpkin Cheesecake:

Substitute: For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese, although this may affect texture.
Textures: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
Seasonal Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice to personalize your flavor profile.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake: Substitute the cream cheese for cashew cream and the eggs with flax eggs to create a plant-based delight without losing flavor.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cheesecake: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the filling for an indulgent twist.
Maple Pecan: Add a drizzle of maple syrup to the batter and top with glazed pecans for a festive flair.

Recipe Q&A

1. Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin?
It’s best to use pure pumpkin to control the sweetness and spices in the cheesecake.

2. Why is my cheesecake cracking?
Overmixing or sudden temperature changes often cause cracks. Always ensure ingredients are at room temperature.

3. How do I know when my cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set, and the center may slightly jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

With this easy no-water-bath Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe, you’re just a few simple steps away from creating a blissful dessert that perfects the cozy spirit of autumn. We invite you to try it for yourself; share your creations and memories with our community. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking and the love of sharing delicious food together!