A Decadent Fusion of Creamy Cheesecake & Gooey Pecan Caramel
This Pecan Cheesecake Pie is the ultimate dessert mashup: a silky brown sugar cheesecake layer meets a sticky pecan caramel crown, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. With its creamy texture, nutty sweetness, and golden crunch—it’s a guaranteed showstopper for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you need pure indulgence.
A dessert that truly has it all!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧈 Graham Cracker Base: Sweet, crunchy, and buttery—holds everything together.
- 🧁 Brown Sugar Cheesecake: Adds warmth and depth to the filling for a richer flavor.
- 🥛 Cream Cheese & Sour Cream Blend: Ensures a velvety, non-grainy texture.
- 🍐 Pecan Caramel Topping: Sticky, gooey, and toasted to perfection.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family gatherings.
Ingredients (Makes 1 9-inch pie / serves 12):
For the Crust:
- 1 sleeve (1 ½ cups) graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter , melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar (adds caramel notes to crust)
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese , softened (room temperature works best)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs (no substitutes)
- ¼ cup sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt for smoother texture)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to stabilize the filling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (use pure for best flavor)
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Pecan Caramel Topping:
- 4 tbsp (½ stick) unsalted butter
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup light corn syrup (or maple syrup for lighter flavor)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Melted butter
- Brown sugar
- Salt
Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish , covering the bottom and sides.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes to set the crust. Let cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add brown sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
- Mix in eggs one at a time , scraping the bowl after each addition.
- Stir in sour cream , flour , vanilla extract , and salt until smooth.
Pour filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Place the pie dish in a roasting pan and add hot water to create a water bath (bain-marie) to prevent cracking.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45–50 minutes , or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent sinking.
Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours , preferably overnight, to fully set.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping
In a small saucepan, melt:
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Corn syrup
Stir until smooth and bubbly (about 3–4 minutes ).
Remove from heat and stir in pecans and vanilla extract .
Spoon mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5: Chill & Serve Cold
Return the pie to the fridge and chill for 1–2 hours until the pecan layer sets.
Each bite brings together:
- Buttery, crisp graham cracker base
- Silky, rich cheesecake center
- Warm, gooey pecan caramel finish
- And that classic holiday indulgence charm
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room-Temp Cream Cheese: Prevents lumps and ensures smooth blending.
- 🥣 Water Bath Hack: Wrap the bottom of the pie dish in foil to prevent leaks.
- 🍐 Pecan Prep: Toast pecans lightly before adding for extra depth.
- 🧁 Don’t Overmix: Beat just until combined to avoid air bubbles in the filling.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Keeps well refrigerated for 3–4 days—best when chilled.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream .
- Great with coffee, espresso, or a glass of bourbon.
- Ideal for holiday dinners, dinner parties, or weekend indulgence.
Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 12 – approximate):
(With regular cream cheese and butter – per serving)
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~25g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~25g
This Pecan Cheesecake Pie proves that combining two classic desserts can create something unforgettable. With its rich cheesecake core, buttery crust, and gooey pecan finish—it’s a must-bake for lovers of creamy, nutty, and sweet treats.
