Easy Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake
This enchanting treat harmoniously combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, resulting in a delightful dessert perfect for fall.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Or gingersnap cookies for extra spice
- 0.25 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling
- 3 packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 0.75 cups sour cream at room temperature
For the pumpkin swirl
- 1 cups pumpkin puree Not pie filling
- 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Pour in melted butter and mix well. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden, then let cool.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, blending well.
- Add eggs one at a time on low speed, mixing to incorporate each egg into the filling.
- Fold in sour cream until fully blended.
- In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, flour, and brown sugar.
- Fold in one cup of the plain cheesecake batter into the pumpkin mix.
Assembly
- Pour the plain cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
- Drop spoonfuls of pumpkin mixture on top and swirl using a knife.
- Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan and add hot water halfway up the sides.
Baking and Cooling
- Bake for 55-65 minutes until edges are set but the center is jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool for one hour inside.
- Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator, and chill for at least four hours or overnight.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Consider substituting with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or nut-based crust for alternatives. Optional garnishes include whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and crushed nuts.