Description
This classic no-bake pumpkin cheesecake blends creamy autumn flavors with graham cracker elegance. Dessert enthusiasts will savor seasonal spices and silky texture, creating a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) melted butter
- 1 1/2 tsps pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Pulverize graham crackers and blend with melted butter, then firmly compress the mixture into the base of a springform pan, creating a compact foundation for the dessert.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until velvety, gradually incorporating powdered sugar, vanilla, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
- Using a separate bowl, vigorously whip heavy cream until it forms sturdy, defined peaks that maintain their shape when the whisk is lifted.
- Delicately integrate the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture, using gentle folding motions to preserve the airy texture and prevent deflation.
- Carefully distribute the pumpkin cheesecake filling across the prepared crust, ensuring an even, smooth surface that reaches the edges of the pan.
- Transfer the assembled dessert to the refrigerator and allow it to set for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally overnight, enabling the filling to firm and develop rich, complex flavors.
- Prior to serving, garnish with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a light dusting of ground cinnamon for an elegant, seasonal presentation.
Notes
- Ensure graham cracker crumbs are finely ground and well-packed to create a sturdy, even crust that holds together perfectly.
- Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to achieve a silky-smooth texture without lumps.
- Whip heavy cream gradually at medium-high speed to develop stable peaks that will keep the cheesecake light and airy.
- This dessert actually tastes better when chilled overnight, allowing flavors to meld and develop a more intense pumpkin profile.
- Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 412 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg