I’m so excited to share this Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe with you because it’s seriously one of my all-time favorite fall desserts. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how creamy, smooth, and perfectly spiced it turned out every single time — no cracking, no fuss, just pure pumpkin cheesecake bliss. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or just craving that cozy pumpkin flavor, this cheesecake delivers every time, and I can’t wait for you to make it in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Failproof Texture: This pumpkin cheesecake rarely cracks, giving you a silky smooth finish every time.
- Perfect Pumpkin Spice Balance: You’ll find the spices are just right — warm and cozy without overpowering the creamy pumpkin.
- Simple to Make: The ingredients come together easily, so even if you’re new to cheesecake, you’ll succeed.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether topped with whipped cream, caramel, or butterscotch sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe comes from combining classic cheesecake staples with just the right pumpkin pie spices. I always recommend using room temperature cream cheese for the creamiest batter, and quality pumpkin puree — Libby’s is my go-to, but if you make your own, just be sure it’s well-drained to avoid watery batter.

- Graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy base that adds the perfect buttery texture to your crust.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to bind the crust together and add richness without extra saltiness.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch in the crust to balance the flavors.
- Cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth to the crust mix, enhancing the pumpkin spices.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake—make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps.
- Light brown sugar: Adds moist caramel notes that complement the pumpkin beautifully.
- Pumpkin puree: Nothing beats real pumpkin (canned or homemade) for authentic flavor.
- Eggs: They provide structure, helping the cheesecake set perfectly.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess that balances sweetness and richness.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to stabilize the filling without changing the texture.
- Pumpkin pie spice: The spice blend that brings everything together with cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors — don’t skip it!
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds depth and rounds out the cheesecake flavor.
Variations
I love making this Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe my own by tweaking the toppings or trying different crusts depending on the occasion. Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs — it’s super forgiving!
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the graham cracker crust for almond flour mixed with butter; it still gives great texture without the gluten.
- Spice It Up: If you like a stronger spice kick, throw in a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom — I tried this once and it was delightfully different!
- Sour Cream Swap: For a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well instead of sour cream, adding a subtle tang.
- Crust Alternatives: A gingersnap crust adds holiday flair and extra spice for a fun twist.
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crust
Start by mixing your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon right in your springform pan or mixing bowl. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom to create a sturdy crust base. I like to use the bottom of a glass to really compact it – it makes a world of difference for texture and prevents sogginess. Pop it in the fridge while you make the filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat the room temperature cream cheese with brown sugar until smooth and fluffy — this is key to avoid lumps and get that silky texture we all love. Then add in the pumpkin puree, eggs one at a time, sour cream, flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla. Mix gently but thoroughly. I’ve learned not to overmix here to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks later.
Step 3: Bake Low and Slow
Pour the batter over the chilled crust and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about an hour. You’ll want to check for that perfect “jiggle” in the center — it should be firm on the edges but slightly wobbly in the middle. That means it’s done baking but won’t crack while cooling. Resist the urge to open the oven door too often, which can cause temperature drops and cracks.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool inside for an hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set perfectly. This waiting period is tough, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Pro Tips for Making Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: I found that using cream cheese and eggs at room temp makes beating easier and smoother.
- No-Crack Baking: Cooling the cheesecake slowly inside the oven is a game changer for preventing cracks.
- Water Bath Alternative: While I don’t always do it, wrapping the pan in foil and baking in a water bath can ensure ultra-moist texture.
- Use a Springform Pan: It makes removing the cheesecake so much easier without damaging those beautiful edges.
How to Serve Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes
I swear by simple yet decadent garnishes to take this pumpkin cheesecake over the top—clouds of whipped cream dusted with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, and for special occasions, a drizzle of butterscotch or caramel sauce that adds that extra layer of sweet warmth. Sometimes I toss on a few toasted pecans for crunch, and my family goes crazy for that combo.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee, making it the perfect finish to any holiday meal. If you’re serving a larger feast, sliced fresh pears or an autumn fruit compote alongside it really complement the creamy pumpkin flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, I’ve had great success making individual cheesecake jars topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle — not only does it look stunning, but it’s super easy for guests to grab and enjoy without cutting slices. Another fun idea is adding a cinnamon stick as a garnish or serving slices with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After a day or two in the fridge, my leftover pumpkin cheesecake still tastes fantastic. I wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it back in the fridge; this keeps the moisture locked in and the flavors fresh. Honestly, sometimes I think it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have mingled!
Freezing
I’ve frozen this pumpkin cheesecake before by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, which keeps it tasting fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. It’s just as creamy and delicious, so freezing is a great option to make ahead for holidays.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best served cold, but if you want to warm a slice slightly, pop it in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Just be careful not to heat it too long, or it can lose its creamy texture. Usually, I let it sit at room temp for 15 minutes before serving as an alternative.
FAQs
-
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree, like Libby’s, works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugars.
-
Why is my pumpkin cheesecake cracking?
Cracking usually happens when the cheesecake cools too quickly or is overbaked. To prevent this, bake it low and slow, and let it cool gradually inside the turned-off oven with the door slightly open before refrigerating.
-
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s even better made a day ahead to let the flavors fully develop. Just keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge, and serve within 3-4 days for best taste.
-
How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
Look for a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan—it should be set around the edges but still a bit loose in the middle. The residual heat will finish cooking it as it cools.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe holds a special place in my heart — it’s the one dessert I make every fall that never fails to get compliments and requests for seconds. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as my family and I do. Once you try it, I bet you’ll have a new holiday classic on your hands. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and let’s bring this pumpkin cheesecake magic to your table!
Print
Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 min
- Cook Time: 60 min
- Total Time: 7 hr 30 min
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake combines a spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery graham cracker crust, creating a festive dessert perfect for the holidays. Enhanced with pumpkin pie spice and a smooth texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with butterscotch sauce or caramel and rum-infused whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (from about 13 whole graham crackers)
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 15 oz pumpkin puree (Libby’s brand, or well-drained homemade puree)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (plus more to dust)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp real vanilla extract
Toppings (Optional)
- Butterscotch Sauce (or Caramel)
- Whipped Cream (rum-infused if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to cover the base completely. Set aside.
- Make the filling: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy, without lumps. Gradually add in the packed light brown sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add pumpkin and eggs: Mix in the pumpkin puree, then add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition to create a smooth batter.
- Incorporate remaining ingredients: Blend in the sour cream, all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and well-mixed.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Lightly dust with additional pumpkin pie spice.
- Bake the cheesecake: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the springform pan on the middle rack and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight to let it firm up and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice into 12 pieces, and garnish with butterscotch sauce or caramel and whipped cream as desired.
Notes
- This pumpkin cheesecake recipe is renowned for being failproof with no cracking, thanks to careful baking and cooling techniques.
- The pumpkin flavor is well-balanced, making it delightful even on its own.
- Elevate the dessert by adding butterscotch or caramel sauce and rum-infused whipped cream for a festive touch.
- Use well-drained homemade pumpkin puree or high-quality canned puree like Libby’s for best texture.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing for a smooth batter.
- Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 34 g
- Sodium: 331 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 129 mg

