Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake with a Twist

As autumn paints the trees in fiery hues, I find myself craving a dessert that captures the season’s essence. This pumpkin cheesecake isn9t just your average pumpkin pie in a crust; it’s a rich, velvety experience, infused with unexpected spices like cardamom and a hint of bourbon. The creamy texture melts in your mouth, leaving behind a warm spice aroma.

What makes this recipe different is the secret ingredient: a swirl of browned butter caramel on top, adding depth and crunch. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want cozy and elegant at the same time. Each slice tells a story of fall flavors, with a sophisticated twist to impress any guest.

Pumpkin Bourbon Cheesecake with Browned Butter Caramel Swirl

This pumpkin cheesecake features a smooth, creamy filling infused with warm spices, including cardamom and a hint of bourbon. The tangy, velvety texture is complemented by a crunchy browned butter caramel swirl on top, creating a rich and visually appealing dessert with autumnal flavors.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs for crust
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for crust
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted, for crust
• 24 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup brown sugar packed
• 3 large eggs at room temperature
• 1 cup canned pumpkin pureed
• 1/4 cup bourbon adds depth
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon spice
• 1 tsp ground ginger spice
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom spice
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves spice
• 1/4 cup sour cream for richness
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter for caramel
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar for caramel
• 1/4 cup heavy cream for caramel

Equipment

• Springform Pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric Mixer
• Saucepan
• Rubber Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a bowl, then stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust, then set aside to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and brown sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 3–4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in canned pumpkin, bourbon, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves until well combined. Fold in sour cream to add extra creaminess. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
4. Pour the pumpkin filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to settle the filling and remove air bubbles.
5. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken. The top should be lightly golden. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour to prevent cracking.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the browned butter caramel: melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, cooking until golden brown and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Add dark brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Pour the caramel over the cooled cheesecake, using a spoon or spatula to create swirls on the surface. Allow the caramel to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or refrigerate for easier slicing.
8. Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices. Serve chilled, enjoying the creamy filling complemented by crunchy caramel topping and aromatic spices.

Notes

Ensure the cheesecake is fully cooled before adding the caramel swirl for clean cuts. For an extra festive touch, garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

This cheesecake is a celebration of fall’s bounty, ready to bring comfort to the table. Its balance of sweet, spice, and creaminess makes it a versatile dessert for holidays or quiet nights in. Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and flavors with every forkful.

Plus, the process of making this cheesecake is almost meditative, with the comforting smell of pumpkin and warm spices filling your kitchen. It’s a reminder to slow down and savor the little joys in baking. Whatever the occasion, this pumpkin cheesecake will leave everyone asking for seconds, smiles included.