This Pecan Cheesecake Pie is the ultimate indulgent dessert, blending the creaminess of a cheesecake with the gooey sweetness of pecan pie. With a buttery, flaky crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a topping of crunchy, caramelized pecans, this pie offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether it’s for the holidays or a special occasion, this pie is sure to impress your guests.
Pecan Cheesecake Pie
I love making this pecan cheesecake pie because it’s truly the best of both worlds. You get the richness and tanginess of cheesecake paired with the sweet, nutty flavor of pecan pie. It’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. The layers come together beautifully, creating a showstopping pie that’s perfect for any gathering. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch.
This pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a festive dessert like Caramel Apple Pecan Cobbler Recipe for a decadent dessert spread.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Cheesecake Pie Recipe
- Two Desserts in One: Combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake and classic pecan pie in one irresistible dessert.
- Perfect for the Holidays: This pie is a stunning addition to any holiday table, especially for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Rich and Decadent: Each bite is rich, sweet, and satisfying, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this pie is straightforward to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
Main Ingredients for Pecan Cheesecake Pie
- Cream Cheese – The base of the cheesecake layer, giving it a smooth and creamy texture.
- Pecans – The star of the pecan pie topping, adding crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Corn Syrup and Brown Sugar – Sweeten the pecan topping and give it that classic gooey, caramel-like texture.
- Eggs – Used in both the cheesecake layer and pecan topping to help set the pie.
- Pie Crust – A buttery, pre-made or homemade crust forms the foundation of this pie.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of both the cheesecake and the pecan layers.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pecan Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Here’s how to make this rich and indulgent pie step by step:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish. If making homemade, roll out the dough and press it into the pie dish. Set aside.
- Tip: Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes if you prefer a crispier crust that doesn’t get soggy.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/3 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and beat until fully combined.
- Pro Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Spread Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Set aside while you prepare the pecan topping.
- Make the Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of corn syrup, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 3 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of pecans, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Tip: You can use chopped pecans or whole pecan halves, depending on your texture preference.
- Assemble the Pie: Gently pour the pecan mixture over the cheesecake layer, being careful not to mix the layers.
- Pro Tip: Arrange some pecan halves on top of the filling for a decorative finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the pecan topping is golden and slightly puffed.
- Pro Tip: If the edges of the pie crust are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving to ensure the layers set properly. Serve at room temperature or chilled, with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
- Serving Idea: For a festive touch, drizzle the pie with caramel sauce or chocolate ganache.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer for a chocolatey twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- How to Store: Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.
- How to Freeze: You can freeze the baked pie (without whipped cream) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Health Benefits of Pecan Cheesecake Pie
While this pie is indulgent, pecans offer some health benefits as they are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Cream cheese also provides a good source of calcium. While this is certainly a treat, enjoying a slice of this pie can be part of a balanced, enjoyable diet.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Pecans are full of heart-healthy fats, which can help support overall cardiovascular health.
- Good Source of Fiber: Pecans provide fiber, which is important for digestive health.
- Calcium-Rich: The cream cheese adds calcium, which supports bone health.
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