Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake

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If you ever find yourself torn between a gooey slice of pecan pie and the rich creaminess of cheesecake, this dessert was made just for you. Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the best of both worlds, with a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious brown sugar cheesecake filling, and a crown of glossy pecan pie topping.

This layered masterpiece is a showstopper at holiday dinners or any time you want to impress guests with a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. It also keeps beautifully, making it perfect for making ahead of time!

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What Kind of Crust Works Best for Pecan Pie Cheesecake?

A graham cracker crust offers the ideal slightly sweet, toasty base to hold the rich layers of this cheesecake. But if you’re craving a twist, try a crust made from crushed vanilla wafers or even shortbread cookies for an extra indulgent variation.

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Ingredients for the Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake

For the crust:

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup melted butter

For the cheesecake filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the pecan pie topping:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

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How To Make the Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in sour cream, vanilla, and salt. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water (water bath). Bake for 55-65 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Cool in the oven with the door cracked, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make the Pecan Pie Topping

In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, cream, butter, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in chopped pecans and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Once the cheesecake is chilled, spoon the pecan topping evenly over the top. Chill again for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Your Cheesecake

Serve chilled, with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. This cheesecake keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, tightly covered. You can also freeze individual slices for up to a month—just wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should be set and the center should jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I make this without a water bath?

Yes, but the water bath helps prevent cracking and gives a smoother texture. If skipping, lower the oven temp slightly and monitor closely.

Do I have to use brown sugar?

Brown sugar gives the cheesecake its signature caramel notes. You can use granulated sugar in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

Can I use whole pecans instead of chopped?

Definitely! Whole pecans create a beautiful decorative topping, while chopped pecans make for easier slicing.

What size pan should I use?

A standard 9-inch springform pan works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

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Want More Cheesecake Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re obsessed with this Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake, you’ll swoon over these other creative bakes:

• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich, fruity contrast.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole if you’re craving something sweet for breakfast.
• Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for bite-sized holiday magic.
• Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars when you’re short on time but still want maximum flavor.
• Pistachio Cheesecake Brownies for the ultimate fudgy-creamy mashup.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go with chopped or whole pecans? Maybe a splash of bourbon in the topping? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

For more daily indulgent inspiration, visit my Pinterest @NinaDishes.

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