Heavenly Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe: A Dreamy Dessert Delight

Sweet, creamy cheesecake meets nutty butter pecan magic in this irresistible dessert.

Southern bakers have long cherished this butter pecan cheesecake recipe as a crowd-pleasing treat.

Rich cream cheese blends seamlessly with toasted pecans, creating a decadent flavor profile.

Each silky slice promises a perfect balance of smooth texture and crunchy nut accents.

The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crumbly foundation that complements the luscious filling.

Layers of buttery, caramelized pecans weave through the cheesecake, offering a luxurious dessert experience.

You’ll savor every heavenly bite of this indulgent Southern-style classic.

FAQs

• How do I toast pecans for the recipe?

Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350F for 8-10 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

• Can I use a different type of nut for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

• How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Bake in a water bath, avoid overmixing, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent sudden temperature changes.

• What's the best way to remove the cheesecake from the springform pan?

Run a knife around the edges after cooling, then carefully release the pan’s sides. Use a spatula to transfer to a serving plate.

Why Everyone Raves About Butter Pecan Cheesecake

• Delight in Easy Baking: This butter pecan cheesecake recipe welcomes bakers of all skill levels, offering straightforward steps that make creating a stunning dessert feel like a breeze.
• Indulge in Decadent Flavors: Toasted pecans and rich praline topping elevate this cheesecake from ordinary to extraordinary, promising a luxurious taste experience that will impress family and friends.
• Perfect for Special Celebrations: Whether it's a holiday gathering, birthday party, or weekend treat, this cheesecake brings a touch of elegance and homemade warmth to any occasion.
• Customize with Ease: Swap garnishes or adjust pecan quantities to suit personal preferences, making this recipe versatile and adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cheesecake Bliss

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds rich flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the crust with a deep, caramel-like sweetness.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth and creamy texture of the cheesecake.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
• Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Add layers of sweetness to the filling.
• Heavy Cream: Makes the cheesecake extra rich and velvety.
• Vanilla: Brings a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.
• Salt: Balances and enhances the overall sweetness of the cheesecake.
• Pecans: Add a nutty crunch and toasted depth to the cheesecake.

• Butter, Brown Sugar: Create a classic praline base with caramel-like notes.
• Heavy Cream: Helps create a smooth and glossy topping.
• Vanilla: Adds depth to the praline sauce.
• Pecans: Provide a crunchy and nutty element to the topping.

Creating Butter Pecan Cheesecake in Your Kitchen

Step 1: Craft Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Grab cream cheese, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.

Use an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until completely smooth and no lumps remain.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Gently fold in toasted pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.

Pour the filling carefully over the prepared crust.

Step 2: Bake Cheesecake to Perfection

Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven.

Bake for 50-55 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.

Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature.

Step 3: Develop Decadent Pecan Praline Topping

In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat.

Pour in heavy cream and simmer, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

• Vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans

Allow the topping to cool slightly and become slightly more viscous.

Step 4: Final Assembly and Serving

Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.

When ready to serve, pour the pecan praline topping over the cheesecake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

• Whipped cream
• Extra toasted pecans

Slice and serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Butter Pecan Cheesecake Expert Advice for Perfect Texture

• Spread pecans on a baking sheet and roast at 350F for 8-10 minutes, stirring once halfway through to enhance their nutty flavor and prevent burning.
• Avoid overmixing the batter and bake in a water bath to create a smooth, crack-free surface that looks professionally made.
• Leave cream cheese at room temperature for 1 hour before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free cheesecake filling that blends seamlessly.
• Use unflavored dental floss to cut clean, precise cheesecake slices without disturbing the delicate praline topping or crumbly crust.

Ways to Customize Your Butter Pecan Cheesecake Experience

• Gluten-Free Pecan Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
• Maple Pecan Variation: Swap brown sugar with maple syrup in both filling and topping for a rich, woodsy flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Pecan Cheesecake: Use erythritol instead of sugar and almond flour crust to reduce carbohydrate content for keto dieters.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and coconut cream for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Presenting Butter Pecan Cheesecake with Style

• Elegant Dinner Finale: Serve this decadent cheesecake as a luxurious dessert after a southern-style meal, creating a memorable ending to your dinner party.
• Seasonal Holiday Showstopper: Bring this rich, nutty cheesecake to thanksgiving or christmas gatherings, where its warm pecan praline topping will delight family and friends.
• Coffee Pairing Perfection: Slice and serve alongside a hot espresso or caramel latte, letting the creamy cheesecake complement the robust coffee flavors for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Presentation Pro Tip: Plate individual slices on vintage dessert plates, drizzle extra praline sauce around the edge, and top with a sprinkle of toasted pecan halves for an elegant touch.

Storing Butter Pecan Cheesecake for Later Enjoyment

• Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
• Keep the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and delicious flavor.
• Wrap the cheesecake securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its original quality.
• Store the pecan praline topping separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, allowing you to add fresh topping when ready to serve.

Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Creamy butter pecan cheesecake delivers a Southern dessert dream with rich, nutty layers of pure indulgence. Silky smooth filling nestled on a graham cracker crust promises sweet comfort that will transport you straight to dessert heaven.

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Ingredients

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Butter Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) melted butter
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) butter

Nut Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (60 g) toasted pecans, chopped
• 1 cup (120 g) toasted pecans, chopped

Base and Filling Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240 g) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
• 2 blocks (16 ounces or 450 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Topping Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) butter
• 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Craft a buttery foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and brown sugar. Press the mixture firmly into a springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake at 325F (163C) for 10 minutes to set the crust, then remove and allow to cool.
2. Create a silky cheesecake base by whipping cream cheese with brown and granulated sugars until perfectly smooth. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring complete integration after each addition. Gently blend in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor complexity.
3. Carefully fold toasted pecans into the cheesecake mixture, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. Transfer the mixture onto the pre-baked crust, spreading it uniformly.
4. Bake the cheesecake at 325F (163C) for 50-55 minutes, watching for a slight jiggle in the center that indicates perfect doneness. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
5. Prepare the luxurious praline topping by melting butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat. Introduce heavy cream and simmer until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Stir in vanilla extract and additional pecans, then let the topping cool and slightly set.
6. Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours to ensure proper setting and flavor development. Before serving, generously drizzle the pecan praline topping over the surface.
7. Garnish with delicate dollops of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans for a visually stunning and delectable dessert presentation.

Notes

• Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and prevent sogginess in the cheesecake filling.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother, lump-free mixing and better texture.
• Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath baking method.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 31 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 34 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg