Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)

Elevate your Thanksgiving meal with a delightful blend of pumpkin pie and the creamy texture of cheesecake. This Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath) is not only perfect for special occasions but also offers a unique twist that will impress your guests. Its rich, smooth flavor and festive appearance make it an ideal dessert to share with family and friends during the fall season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and pumpkin creates an incredibly smooth cheesecake that melts in your mouth.
• Easy Preparation: No water bath is required, making this recipe simpler without compromising on flavor or texture.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your cheesecake with a variety of toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, or fresh fruits to suit any palate.
• Perfect for Celebrations: This Pumpkin Cheesecake is a showstopper at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any festive occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare this cheesecake a day in advance to save time on the day of your event. It tastes even better after chilling overnight!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking this delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Liquid measuring cup

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in ingredients gently.

Ingredients

Elevate your Thanksgiving meal by combining pumpkin pie and the silky texture of cheesecake to get this creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe.

• 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (see note below on using gingersnaps)
• 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 32 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature; Philadelphia brand preferred)
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup pure pumpkin (Libby’s brand preferred)
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
• any desired cheesecake toppings

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Place oven racks in the center of the oven. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium-sized bowl:
* Stir together graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until well mixed; the mixture should resemble damp sand.
* Press crust mixture into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan using the bottom of a measuring cup.
* Bake in preheated oven for 7 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 3: Mix Cream Cheese Filling

Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl or stand mixer:
1. Mix cream cheese for 30 seconds until smooth.
2. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, then add granulated sugar; stir until smooth.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in:
* Vanilla extract,
* Pure pumpkin,
* Pumpkin pie spice,
* Cinnamon.

Scrape again to ensure even mixing throughout.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

In a liquid measuring cup:
1. Crack eggs into it and beat with a fork until well scrambled.
2. With mixer on low, slowly pour in beaten eggs into cream cheese mixture until just incorporated.

Remove bowl from mixer and scrape sides again to ensure smoothness; fold in any small lumps gently with a rubber scraper.

Step 6: Remove Air Bubbles

Once batter is completely smooth:
1. Tap bowl on counter for 30–45 seconds to remove air bubbles; watch them pop on the surface.
2. Pour filling into center of prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing out the top gently.

Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for:
* 40 minutes,
Then reduce temperature to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for another 45 minutes.

Once done, turn off oven but leave cheesecake inside for additional carryover cooking without opening door for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Cool & Chill Cheesecake

Crack open oven door slightly to let cheesecake cool slowly for one hour before removing it from oven. Allow it to reach room temperature on counter for about 3–4 hours before covering with plastic wrap and transferring it to fridge.

Refrigerate until completely chilled (6 hours to overnight). To serve:
1. Open springform pan and carefully remove collar.
2. Decorate as desired.
3. Dip a sharp knife into hot water, wipe off excess water, then slice through cheesecake for clean pieces – dip knife between each slice if needed.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Cheesecake!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)

Serving your Pumpkin Cheesecake is just as important as making it. With the right accompaniments, you can elevate this delightful dessert and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

Classic Toppings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that perfectly complements the dense cheesecake.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for a sweet contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.

Seasonal Fruit

• Cranberries: Fresh or lightly cooked cranberries provide a tart element that balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.
• Pomegranate Seeds: These jewels add a burst of color and a refreshing crunch, making your dessert look stunning.

Specialty Sauces

• Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle can create a decadent pairing with the creamy pumpkin flavor.
• Maple Syrup: For an autumn twist, serve with warm maple syrup to enhance the fall flavors in the cheesecake.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)

Achieving the perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake requires attention to detail and a few expert tips. Follow these guidelines for great results every time.

• Bold Ingredients: Always use high-quality cream cheese and pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
• Room Temperature Components: Ensure that cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for easier blending and a smoother batter.
• Tap Out Air Bubbles: After mixing, tap your bowl against the counter to remove air bubbles, which helps prevent cracks during baking.
• Slow Cooling: Cool your cheesecake gradually in the oven after baking to avoid sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
• Chill Thoroughly: Allow your cheesecake to chill completely in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours before serving for optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Cheesecake enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options that work well together.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm up spiced apple cider as a cozy beverage that complements the flavors of fall in your cheesecake.
2. Ginger Snap Cookies: Serve crispy ginger snaps alongside your cheesecake for an extra layer of spice and crunch.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts provides a fresh contrast to the richness of cheesecake.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors.
5. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that can balance out the dessert’s sweetness.
6. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and tempers the richness of the cheesecake perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath), it’s easy to make a few errors that could impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to lumps in your batter. Always allow these ingredients to come to room temperature for a smooth texture.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can incorporate air, leading to cracks during baking. Mix until just combined and avoid over-beating.

• Not tapping the bowl: Air bubbles in the batter can cause uneven baking. Tap the bowl on the counter before pouring it into the crust to release trapped air.

• Ignoring cooling times: Rushing the cooling process can affect the texture of your cheesecake. Allow it to cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating.

• Using the wrong pan: A springform pan is essential for easy removal. Avoid using a regular cake pan, as it can make serving difficult.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Cheesecake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Make sure it’s completely chilled before covering.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, heat on low power for short increments of time.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; best to use oven or microwave instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath) that you might find helpful.

Can I use a different crust for Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath)?

Yes! You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with gingersnap cookies or even oat-based crusts for a unique flavor twist.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Cheesecake is done?

The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. It will firm up as it cools down.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it perfect for preparing in advance.

What toppings go well with Pumpkin Cheesecake?

Consider topping with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or candied pecans for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cheesecake (no water bath) is a delightful blend of creamy and spiced flavors that elevates any dessert table. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings based on your preferences, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Try this recipe and enjoy a slice of fall’s finest treat!