Recipe: Pecan Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust
Pie Crust Ingredients:
- Crust:
- 1 sleeve of crushed graham crackers
- 5 tablespoons of melted butter
- 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
- Filling:
- 3 (8 oz.) blocks of softened cream cheese
- 1 cup of packed honey
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping Ingredients:
- Topping:
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of pecans, whole or chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pie Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, packed brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Firmly press the crust mixture onto the bottom of the pan.
2. Making the Cheesecake Filling:
- In another mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to blend softened cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust-lined pan.
3. Baking the Cheesecake:
- Wrap the base of the pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
- Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for one hour.
- After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for one hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least five hours.
4. Making the Topping:
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter and brown sugar until bubbling.
- Stir in cinnamon, heavy cream, pecans, and salt, mixing well.
- Remove from heat and let the topping cool for 20 minutes.
- Drizzle the topping over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use store-bought crust instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can use a pre-made crust if you prefer. Just follow the instructions on the package for baking.
Q: How long does the cheesecake need to cool in the refrigerator?
A: It’s best to let the cheesecake chill in the refrigerator for at least five hours to set properly before serving.
Q: Can I substitute the pecans with another type of nut?
A: Yes, you can use your preferred nuts or omit them altogether if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.