Are you looking for a delightful treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of cheese? Look no further! Today, we are thrilled to share with you a mouthwatering pumpkin cheese cake recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delectable dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
First, let’s talk about the ingredients. To make this pumpkin cheese cake, you will need the following:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps of making this delicious pumpkin cheese cake.
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix well and press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the canned pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and salt, and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the eggs to the cream cheese mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cake to become dense.
4. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream until smooth. Drizzle the sour cream mixture over the top of the pumpkin cheese cake, creating a swirl pattern with a knife.
5. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish. Fill the baking dish with hot water, making sure the water does not touch the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is set.
6. Remove the springform pan from the water bath and let the cake cool in the pan for 1 hour. After that, transfer the cake to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the flavors to meld together.
7. Once the cake is chilled, remove the springform pan and serve. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Enjoy your homemade pumpkin cheese cake with a cup of hot coffee or tea, and savor the perfect blend of creamy cheese and rich pumpkin. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!