Description
This Pecan Cheesecake Pie combines a creamy, smooth cheesecake layer with a rich, buttery pecan topping. Made in a graham cracker crust, this dessert offers a delightful mixture of textures and flavors, perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Toasted pecans add a crunchy contrast to the luscious, sweet cream cheese base, while the caramel-like pecan topping completes this classic Southern-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 pre-made or homemade graham cracker crust
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the graham cracker crust on a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any spills during baking.
- Mix cream cheese base: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
- Add eggs: Beat the eggs in one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture to maintain a smooth texture.
- Fill the crust: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it smoothly with a spatula.
- Bake cheesecake layer: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After baking, remove and let it cool for 10 minutes to set slightly before adding the topping.
- Prepare pecan topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the light brown sugar, corn syrup, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture continuously until it is smooth and begins to bubble.
- Add pecans to topping: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the toasted chopped pecans to evenly coat them with the syrupy mixture.
- Top the cheesecake: Spoon the pecan topping gently over the slightly cooled cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Bake final pie: Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes until the pecan topping is set and golden brown.
- Cool and chill: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to fully set the cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to toast the pecans beforehand to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigeration to avoid condensation making the crust soggy.
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese for a richer texture and flavor.
- You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup for a different flavor, though it may affect the texture slightly.
- Use a water bath if desired to prevent cracking in the cheesecake layer, but it is optional for this recipe.
