Pecan Cheesecake with Crunchy Caramelized Nut Topping

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Ingredients Overview

Before starting, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the cream cheese and eggs. This ensures a smooth batter without lumps.

🍪 Ingredients for the Crust

  • 250 g digestive biscuits or graham crackers
  • 120 g unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

🧀 Ingredients for the Cheesecake Filling

  • 700 g cream cheese (full fat, softened)
  • 200 g granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 200 ml heavy cream or sour cream
  • A pinch of salt

🌰 Ingredients for the Pecan Topping

  • 250 g pecans, roughly chopped
  • 120 g brown sugar
  • 80 g unsalted butter
  • 100 ml heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • A pinch of salt

🔪 Equipment Needed

  • 22–24 cm springform pan
  • Baking paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Oven
  • Cooling rack

🍪 Preparing the Biscuit Crust

The crust forms the foundation of the cheesecake, so it needs to be firm and flavorful.

  1. Crush the biscuits finely using a food processor or by placing them in a bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
  2. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and add brown sugar and cinnamon.
  3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
  4. Line the base of the springform pan with baking paper.
  5. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using the back of a spoon or a glass.
  6. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or bake it at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes for extra crispness.

Set aside to cool.

🧀 Making the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

This is the heart of the dessert, and patience is key.

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on low speed until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the cornstarch and salt, mixing gently.
  4. Add the vanilla extract.
  5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition.
  6. Finally, add the heavy cream or sour cream and mix just until smooth.

⚠️ Important Tip: Do not overmix. Too much air can cause cracks during baking.

🧁 Assembling the Cheesecake

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.

🔥 Baking the Cheesecake

  1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
  2. Place the cheesecake on the middle rack.
  3. Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
  4. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
  5. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

🌰 Preparing the Caramelized Pecan Topping

This topping adds richness, crunch, and irresistible flavor.

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream slowly while stirring.
  4. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
  6. Stir in the chopped pecans.
  7. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the pecans are fully coated and glossy.
  8. Remove from heat and let the topping cool slightly.

🍰 Final Assembly

  1. Remove the chilled cheesecake from the springform pan.
  2. Spoon the pecan topping evenly over the surface.
  3. Let it set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

The topping will firm up slightly but remain deliciously sticky.

🔪 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled or slightly at room temperature.
  • Pair with coffee, espresso, or black tea.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

❄️ Storage Tips

  • Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

🌟 Tips for Perfect Results

  • Always use full-fat cream cheese.
  • Avoid opening the oven door during baking.
  • Use a warm knife for clean slices.
  • Let flavors develop overnight for the best taste.

🍂 Flavor Variations

  • Add maple syrup to the topping for deeper flavor.
  • Mix toasted coconut with the pecans.
  • Use ginger biscuits for the crust.
  • Add a splash of bourbon to the caramel sauce for an adult twist.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pecan cheesecake is:

  • Rich but balanced
  • Creamy with a crunchy contrast
  • Perfect for celebrations
  • A guaranteed crowd-pleaser

Whether you’re baking for a holiday table or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake delivers comfort, elegance, and unforgettable flavor in every slice.

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