Get ready to indulge in a sweet and savory celebration this Thanksgiving with these 18 decadent cheesecake recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic pumpkin spice to innovative flavors like chai spiced and toasted coconut, there’s something for everyone on this list. We’ve got cheesecakes with crunchy gingersnap crusts, gooey caramel drizzles, and even a few with boozy bourbon glazes. And don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about the classic fall flavors – think apple cinnamon swirl, maple pecan, and sweet potato marshmallow goodness. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a big bash, these cheesecakes are sure to be the star of the show.
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
Warm up your fall season with this delightful Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake, topped with a crunchy Gingersnap crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups gingersnap crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Maple Pecan Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle
This creamy cheesecake is infused with the warm flavors of maple syrup and toasted pecans, topped with a rich caramel drizzle. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Caramel drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Prepare cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then maple syrup, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans. Pour batter into prepared crust.
4. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before drizzling with caramel.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Swirl Cheesecake
This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples and creaminess of cheesecake, creating a unique and scrumptious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust, followed by apple mixture.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Cranberry Orange Cheesecake with Shortbread Crust
This refreshing cheesecake combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, all nestled in a crumbly shortbread crust. Perfect for a seasonal dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the crust: In a bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Prepare the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Stir in cranberries and orange juice.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Sweet Potato Cheesecake with Marshmallow Topping
A creamy cheesecake infused with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, topped with a fluffy marshmallow layer – a unique and indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the marshmallow topping:
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 tbsp light corn syrup
– 1 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract.
4. Fold in mashed sweet potatoes until well combined.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Allow to cool completely.
8. For the marshmallow topping, melt corn syrup and sugar in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
9. Add mini marshmallows and stir until coated.
10. Top cooled cheesecake with marshmallow mixture.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Pecan Pie Cheesecake with Bourbon Glaze
Experience the perfect blend of rich flavors and textures in this decadent dessert. A creamy cheesecake infused with the warmth of bourbon, nestled within a nutty pecan pie crust.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups pecans
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
For the glaze:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing pecans, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Prepare cheesecake by beating cream cheese until smooth, then adding eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir in bourbon whiskey (if using).
5. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before serving with Bourbon Glaze.
Bourbon Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar and bourbon whiskey together until smooth. Drizzle over cheesecake before serving.
Spiced Chai Cheesecake with Honey Whipped Cream
Warm up with a rich and creamy Spiced Chai Cheesecake, infused with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Top it off with a sweet and tangy Honey Whipped Cream for a truly special treat.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
For the honey whipped cream:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust according to package instructions.
3. Beat cheesecake ingredients until smooth; pour into prepared pan.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
5. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
6. Whip cream and honey until stiff peaks form.
7. Serve chilled cheesecake with whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, with a crumbly crust and gooey caramel topping. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (such as dulce de leche)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
3. Press crust into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Stir in granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
7. Pour cheesecake mixture over the crust.
8. Top with caramel sauce and sliced apples.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
10. Allow to cool before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Cheesecake
White Chocolate Cranberry Cheesecake: A Delicate Balance of Sweet and Tart Flavors
This refreshing cheesecake combines the creamy richness of white chocolate with the tangy sweetness of cranberries, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, separated
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust: Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter; mix until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Prepare filling: Beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Melt white chocolate chips and fold into the mixture.
4. Fold in cranberries and pecans (if using).
5. Pour filling over crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Gingerbread Cheesecake with Molasses Glaze
This seasonal dessert combines the spices of gingerbread with the creaminess of cheesecake, topped with a rich molasses glaze. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup molasses
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by ginger, baking soda, and cinnamon.
3. Pour batter into prepared crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
4. Let cool completely. Drizzle with molasses glaze (mix equal parts molasses and heavy cream).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Cheesecake with Candied Walnuts
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this rich and creamy pumpkin cheesecake, topped with a crunchy candied walnut crust. This unique dessert combines the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of caramelized walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup candied walnuts (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Allow to cool completely before topping with candied walnuts.
Note: To make candied walnuts, preheat oven to 350°F. Toss 1/2 cup chopped walnuts with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon water. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
Chocolate Pecan Cheesecake with Salted Caramel
This rich and indulgent cheesecake combines the deep flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans for a truly unforgettable dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler; stir into cheesecake batter.
5. Stir in chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
6. Pour batter into prepared crust.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with salted caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg Topping
Celebrate the holiday season with a rich and creamy eggnog cheesecake, topped with a warm and comforting nutmeg crunch. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons melted butter
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the nutmeg topping:
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, eggnog, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
5. Prepare nutmeg topping by mixing brown sugar, butter, and ground nutmeg.
6. Spread topping over cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Pear and Ginger Cheesecake with Almond Crust
This cheesecake combines the sweetness of pears with the spicy warmth of ginger, all on a crunchy almond crust. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pear puree
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing almonds, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by pear puree, ginger, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over the crust and bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Toasted Coconut Cheesecake with Pineapple Compote
Elevate your dessert game with this tropical twist on classic cheesecake. The toasted coconut crust and creamy filling are perfectly balanced by the sweet and tangy pineapple compote.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
– 1 pound cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the pineapple compote:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, toasted coconut, and sugar. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour filling over crust and bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
5. Prepare pineapple compote by combining pineapple, sugar, honey, and lime juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until caramelized.
6. Serve cheesecake with warm pineapple compote.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Brown Butter Pumpkin Cheesecake
This rich and creamy cheesecake combines the warmth of brown butter with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, perfect for a seasonal dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and butter until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add pumpkin, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture into prepared pan over crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake
This rich and decadent cheesecake combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with the savory flavor of salt, all wrapped up in a creamy cheesecake. Perfect for fall gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramelized apples (see note)
– 1/4 cup flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
6. Top with caramelized apples and sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
Note: Caramelize apples by cooking 2-3 apples (any variety) in a skillet with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until tender and golden.
Chai Spiced Cheesecake with Pistachio Crust
This Chai Spiced Cheesecake with Pistachio Crust is the perfect blend of warm spices and creamy texture, topped with a crunchy pistachio crust. Perfect for the fall season or any time you need a comforting dessert.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 cup pistachios
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 2 teaspoons chai spice blend (or a mix of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by pulsing pistachios, sugar, and salt in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
3. Press the crust mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, chai spice blend, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan over the crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a Thanksgiving feast like no other! We’ve gathered 18 decadent cheesecake recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic pumpkin and pecan to innovative maple and chai, these sweet treats incorporate seasonal flavors and ingredients for a unique twist on traditional desserts. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a simple yet impressive side dish, there’s something for everyone in this collection of irresistible cheesecakes.
