Caramel Pecan Pie Cheesecake

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This Caramel Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for lovers of creamy cheesecake and gooey pecan pie. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake layer, a decadent pecan pie filling, and a caramelized pecan topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this indulgent dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs – Use store-bought or crush whole graham crackers in a food processor.
  • ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar – Adds a molasses-like sweetness.
  • ½ cup salted butter, melted – For binding and flavor.

Pecan Pie Filling:

  • ⅓ cup salted butter – Adds richness.
  • 1½ cups pecans, chopped – For a nutty crunch.
  • 1 cup light corn syrup – The base of the filling’s gooey texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling.
  • 2 eggs – Adds structure.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.

Cheesecake Filling:

  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened – For a smooth and creamy texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
  • 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour – Adds structure.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – For flavor.
  • 3 eggs – Adds richness and stability.
  • ½ cup sour cream – For a tangy and creamy texture.

Pecan Topping:

  • ½ cup salted butter – Adds richness.
  • ⅔ cup light brown sugar – For sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup – For a glossy finish.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For depth of flavor.
  • ½ cup heavy cream – Adds creaminess.
  • 2 cups roughly chopped pecans – The star of the topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
  3. Press into Pan: Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Pie Filling

  1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans and toast for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Create Filling: Add the corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Cool: Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Sugar, Salt, and Flour: Gradually mix in the granulated sugar, salt, and flour.
  3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the vanilla extract, eggs (one at a time), and sour cream. Mix until smooth, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  1. Layer the Filling: Pour the cooled pecan pie filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Add Cheesecake Layer: Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the pecan pie layer.
  3. Bake: Place the springform pan in a water bath and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggles in the center.
  4. Cool: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the oven door slightly open for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Step 5: Make the Pecan Topping

  1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add Sugar and Corn Syrup: Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup, cooking until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Incorporate Vanilla and Cream: Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
  4. Add Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans and cook for 2–3 minutes. Let the topping cool slightly before using.

Step 6: Finish the Cheesecake

  1. Add Topping: Pour the pecan topping over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
  2. Serve: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Conclusion

This Caramel Pecan Pie Cheesecake combines the best of two classic desserts into one irresistible treat. With its layers of crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and creamy cheesecake, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy any sweet tooth. Serve it as the centerpiece of your dessert table and enjoy the compliments!