Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe That Wows Every Time

Autumn’s golden embrace brings the most delightful pumpkin cheesecake recipe that will melt hearts at any gathering.

Silky smooth and rich with warm spices, this dessert captures the essence of cozy seasonal comfort.

Creamy layers of decadent filling nestled atop a buttery graham cracker crust promise pure indulgence.

Each bite tells a story of harvest traditions and sweet memories.

The blend of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Sophisticated yet wonderfully familiar, this cheesecake stands as a delectable centerpiece for holiday celebrations.

You’ll find yourself falling in love with every luxurious slice that celebrates the magic of fall.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time:

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 380 kcal

Servings: 13

What You’ll Need for No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

For Graham Cracker Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a crispy, sweet foundation with warm cinnamon undertones that complements the creamy filling.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deeper caramel notes and helps bind the crust for perfect texture.
  • Cinnamon: Introduces warm, aromatic spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melts the crumbs together, creating a firm and delectable crust that holds its shape.
For Creamy Filling:
  • Cream Cheese, Pumpkin Puree, Heavy Cream: Trio of rich ingredients that create a silky, luxurious texture with balanced moisture and tangy depth.
  • Powdered Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweetens the filling while providing smooth consistency and complex caramel undertones.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Magical blend of warming spices that captures classic autumn essence, transforming the cheesecake into a seasonal sensation.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle depth and rounds out the flavor, complementing the pumpkin and spice beautifully.

Kitchen Tools for Chilling Pumpkin Cheesecake

  • Springform Pan: 9-inch pan with removable sides for easy cheesecake release.
  • Electric Mixer: Essential for beating cream and cream cheese to smooth consistency.
  • Mixing Bowls: Medium-sized for combining ingredients and whipping cream.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements for perfect recipe balance.
  • Spatula: Helps fold whipped cream and smooth top of cheesecake.
  • Paper Towels: Used to blot excess liquid from pumpkin puree.
  • Whisk: Optional tool for mixing dry ingredients in crust and spices.

Assembling No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake with Ease

  • Crust Foundation

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend with warm melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a solid base that will hold your delicious dessert together.

  • Creamy Pumpkin Mixture

Whip heavy cream until it forms luxurious soft peaks. In a separate bowl, blend cream cheese until smooth, then fold in pumpkin puree and warm autumn spices. Gently incorporate the whipped cream, creating a light and airy texture that melts in your mouth.

  • Chilling and Setting

Pour the silky pumpkin mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a gentle touch. Place in the refrigerator and let the cheesecake relax and set for several hours, allowing the flavors to mingle and develop a rich, creamy consistency.

  • Serving Delight

When ready to serve, carefully release the springform pan. Top with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The result is a decadent dessert that captures the essence of fall in every single bite.

Tips to Boost No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Flavor

  • Add extra pumpkin pie spice for a more intense autumn flavor that dances on your taste buds.
  • Swap graham crackers with gingersnap cookies for a spicier, more robust base that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
  • Gently fold whipped cream to maintain airiness, ensuring a light and fluffy cheesecake that melts in your mouth.
  • Sprinkle crushed pecans or drizzle caramel sauce just before serving to elevate the dessert's visual appeal and add delightful crunch.
  • This cheesecake actually tastes better after sitting overnight, allowing flavors to meld and develop a deeper, richer taste profile.

Serving No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake with Style

  • Autumn Dessert Pairing: Serve this creamy pumpkin cheesecake alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider or a rich caramel latte for a cozy seasonal experience.
  • Garnish Galore: Top the cheesecake with a sprinkle of crushed gingersnap cookies, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of cinnamon to enhance its visual appeal and add extra flavor layers.
  • Holiday Presentation: Decorate the cheesecake with candied pecans, whipped cream rosettes, and a light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for an elegant thanksgiving or friendsgiving dessert centerpiece that will impress your guests.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this no-bake cheesecake up to 2 days in advance, keeping it covered in the refrigerator, which makes it perfect for stress-free entertaining and meal planning.

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Storage Made Simple

  • Delightful Refrigerator Storage: Keep your no-bake pumpkin cheesecake covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cool environment helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents flavor absorption from other foods.
  • Freezing Magic: Slice the cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake stays delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best taste and texture.
  • Smart Prep Tricks: Create the crust and filling up to 2 days before your event. Store the crust and filling separately in airtight containers to maintain maximum freshness. This strategy saves time and reduces day-of preparation stress.
  • Leftover Love: Enjoy leftover slices straight from the refrigerator or let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Garnish with extra whipped cream or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice to refresh the presentation and add excitement to each bite.
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Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Rich, creamy pumpkin cheesecake blends autumn spices with silky cream cheese on a graham cracker crust. Warm holiday gatherings become memorable when you share this classic dessert with friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, brick-style, full-fat
  • 2 cups (480 ml) pumpkin puree
  • 1 ½ cups (375 ml) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
  • ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
  • 2 tbsps (30 g) brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tsps vanilla extract
  • ⅔ cup (160 ml) heavy cream (33% MF or more)
  • 6 tbsps (85 g) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Crust Preparation: Blend graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter into a cohesive mixture, pressing firmly into a 9-inch springform pan’s base to create a solid foundation. Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes to set.
  2. Pumpkin Moisture Control: Pat pumpkin puree with paper towels to remove excess liquid, ensuring a dense and creamy filling consistency.
  3. Cream Preparation: Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks using an electric mixer, creating a light, voluminous texture that will enhance the cheesecake’s structure.
  4. Filling Fusion: In a large bowl, cream together cream cheese, powdered sugar, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until silky smooth. Gently fold in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, maintaining the mixture’s airy quality.
  5. Cream Integration: Delicately incorporate whipped cream into the pumpkin cream cheese base, preserving its fluffy volume and ensuring even distribution.
  6. Assembly and Chilling: Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the surface. Refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours or overnight to allow complete setting and flavor melding.
  7. Final Presentation: Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice just before serving, creating an elegant and inviting dessert.

Notes

  • Moisture Management: Thoroughly pat pumpkin puree dry to prevent watery texture and ensure a firm, creamy cheesecake consistency.
  • Crust Compression: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into pan to create a solid, compact base that holds the filling perfectly.
  • Folding Technique: Incorporate whipped cream gently to maintain airiness and prevent deflating the delicate mixture, preserving the light, fluffy texture.
  • Chilling Crucial: Allow minimum 6 hours refrigeration, ideally overnight, for complete setting and maximum flavor development and smooth consistency.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Sophie Reynolds

Sophie Reynolds

Co-Founder, Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Home Cooking Innovation & Comfort Recipes
  • Flavor Development & Ingredient Pairing
  • Seasonal Produce Integration
  • Recipe Testing & Instructional Clarity
  • Culinary Education & Community Workshops

Education

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, Boulder, CO

  • Degree: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern culinary techniques, emphasizing sustainable cooking practices, kitchen professionalism, and real-world restaurant experience through externships.

Oregon State University

  • Degree: B.S. in Nutrition and Food Management
  • Focus: In-depth study of human nutrition, food safety, meal planning, and food-service operations, with a strong foundation in public health, dietetics, and community-based nutrition programs.

Sophie Reynolds is the recipe developer and culinary voice behind many of the approachable, flavor-focused creations at The Dream Café. 

Sophie’s style leans into comfort food made simple: wholesome, satisfying meals anyone can make with confidence. Her passion lies in helping home cooks feel at ease in the kitchen while finding joy in the everyday act of cooking.

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