Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of creamy pecan pie cheesecake, where the sweet, nutty aroma dances in the air and every bite offers a delightful crunch alongside velvety smoothness. This dessert is not just food; it’s an experience that will have your taste buds singing and your heart doing a little happy dance.
I remember the first time I made this pecan pie cheesecake for Thanksgiving. My family’s reaction was priceless—a mix of disbelief and sheer joy as they tried to comprehend how one dish could be both a pie and a cheesecake. It’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or even a Tuesday afternoon when you need a little treat to brighten your day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pecan pie cheesecake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers
- Its flavor is a harmonious blend of creamy cheese and crunchy pecans
- Visually, it presents beautifully with its golden-brown topping that will impress any guest
- Not only is it great for special occasions, but it also makes an indulgent weeknight dessert
One Thanksgiving, my cousin declared this cake “the best thing he’s ever tasted,” which made all the effort worthwhile.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a smooth crust that holds together well.
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Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness; remember to let it cool slightly before mixing.
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Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth filling; don’t skip this step!
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Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the filling perfectly; adjust according to your taste.
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Eggs: Use large eggs for the best texture; they help bind the filling together.
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Pecan Halves: Toast them lightly for extra flavor before adding them to the filling.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances all flavors; avoid imitation for the best results.
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Heavy Cream: A splash of heavy cream in the filling adds richness and decadence.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan for an even base.
Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar while mixing until creamy and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream for extra creaminess.
Incorporate Pecans: Gently fold in toasted pecans using a spatula to keep them intact while ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
Bake Your Cheesecake : Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake in preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool Down Before Serving : Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for about an hour to prevent cracking as it cools gradually. Afterward, chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before slicing.
Now you’ve got yourself an incredible pecan pie cheesecake that’s bound to impress friends and family! Enjoy every creamy bite with that delightful crunch from pecans, all while soaking up compliments like it’s going out of style!
You Must Know
- This pecan pie cheesecake is a delightful blend of rich flavors, creamy texture, and crunchy pecans that creates a dessert party in your mouth
- The aroma of roasting pecans will fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, making it a perfect treat for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust first; while it bakes, whip up the cheesecake filling for efficiency. This method ensures both components are fresh and delicious when assembled.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts if you’re feeling adventurous, or add chocolate chips for an extra flavor punch. Customize this cheesecake to suit your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Enjoy cold or let sit at room temperature before serving for optimal creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother cheesecake batter that mixes easily
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks while baking
- Pre-bake the crust until golden brown for added crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling
Memories of my first attempt at making this pecan pie cheesecake still make me chuckle; my friends devoured it within minutes, declaring it “life-changing” and asking for seconds—who knew I could be so popular?

FAQ
Can I use store-bought crust for pecan pie cheesecake?
Yes, store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing flavor—just ensure it’s deep enough.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing and bake at a low temperature to minimize cracks during cooling.
Can I freeze leftover pecan pie cheesecake?
Absolutely! Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to two months—thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Creamy Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Indulge in the delightful fusion of two classic desserts with this creamy pecan pie cheesecake. Each bite combines a velvety cheesecake filling with a crunchy pecan topping, creating a symphony of flavors that will elevate any occasion. Perfect for holidays or a sweet treat on a regular day, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter; press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate vanilla extract and heavy cream.
- Gently fold in toasted pecans and pour the filling over the crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off oven and let cool inside for an hour before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg


