Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Recipe

The allure of our Caramel Pecan Cheesecake lies in its perfect fusion of creamy richness and nutty crunch, making it the quintessential dessert for warm family gatherings and festive occasions. Imagine a smooth cheesecake base crowned with a decadent layer of caramel and sprinkled with pecans, capturing the essence of autumn’s golden hues and cozy evenings. This recipe is not just about creating a dessert; it’s about crafting sweet memories with loved ones. Let’s dive into this family-favorite recipe that promises to be a show-stopper at your next gathering!

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for topping)
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to create the crust.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
5. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust. Drizzle 1/4 cup of caramel sauce and half of the chopped pecans over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool slowly.
7. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Before serving, drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle the remaining pecans on top.

Helpful Tips

• To prevent cracks, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and avoid over-mixing the batter.
• For easy crust preparation, use a food processor to grind the graham crackers.
• Add a water bath in the oven to maintain moisture and prevent the cheesecake from drying out.

Storage and Substitutions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Swap the graham cracker crust with a chocolate cookie crust for a different flavor profile, or use walnuts instead of pecans if preferred.

Pairings

This Caramel Pecan Cheesecake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of sparkling apple cider. For a complete fall feast, serve alongside roasted turkey and a hearty autumn salad.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Caramel Pecan Cheesecake! Share your creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website here. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious updates, and follow us on social media for daily inspiration!