Butter Pecan Cheesecake

Are you ready for a dessert that will leave your taste buds singing? Look no further than this delightful Butter Pecan Cheesecake! Imagine a creamy, buttery filling that melts in your mouth, complemented by the rich, satisfying crunch of toasted pecans on top. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that is sure to impress a crowd or make your family gatherings a bit cozier. Did you know that cheesecakes date back to ancient Greece? They were a symbol of prosperity and abundance. And, while I might not be an ancient Greek chef, I like to think my interpretation brings modern flair to a timeless classic. If you enjoy my popular No-Bake Mango Cheesecake, you’ll find this Butter Pecan Cheesecake equally irresistible!

What is Butter Pecan Cheesecake?

So, what’s the scoop with Butter Pecan Cheesecake, anyway? Well, its whimsical name suggests a decadent dessert that’s as sweet as it sounds! But have you ever wondered if this luscious treat was crafted just to woo hearts? You might just think that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach when you serve this up! With every slice, you’ll send everyone on a delicious journey, making it hard for anyone to resist going back for seconds. So why not give this show-stopping dessert a whirl at your next family gathering?

Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Cheesecake

Here are three reasons this Butter Pecan Cheesecake stands out as a crowd-pleaser. First, the buttery, creamy filling pairs beautifully with the crunchy pecan topping, creating a flavor experience that’s simply unforgettable. Second, making this dessert at home means you can enjoy a gourmet treat that won’t break the bank, allowing you to celebrate with loved ones more often! And lastly, you can customize the toppings! Whether you add whipped cream, caramel sauces, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon, you can easily elevate each bite. Compared to other desserts, like a traditional plain cheesecake, this Butter Pecan Cheesecake truly shines! So why not make it for your next gathering and watch your guests delight in every moment?

How to Make Butter Pecan Cheesecake

Quick Overview

Making Butter Pecan Cheesecake is surprisingly easy and incredibly satisfying! You’ll love the contrast between the creamy center and the crunchy pecan topping. Plus, with a preparation time of just about 20 minutes, it’s perfect for those who want to whip up something special without spending the whole day in the kitchen!

Key Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cheesecake

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup sugar
• For the Filling:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
• For the Pecan Topping:
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup brown sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for about 10 minutes and then let it cool.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just blended. Avoid overmixing to ensure a smooth texture.
3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
4. Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in chopped pecans and brown sugar, mixing until the sugar is dissolved and pecans are evenly coated. Let cool slightly.
5. Finish Up: Once the cheesecake is baked and cooled, spread the pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
6. Serve: Slice your heavenly creation and enjoy!

Top Tips for Perfecting Butter Pecan Cheesecake

1. Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese. It offers a similar texture with less fat!
2. Avoiding Cracks: To prevent cracks on the surface, avoid overmixing the batter, and bake at a lower temperature. Also, turning off the oven and allowing the cheesecake to cool within the oven can help.
3. Let It Chill: The longer you chill your cheesecake, the better the flavors meld together. Aim for at least overnight refrigeration.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store any leftovers or prepare in advance, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated for up to five days. If you want to freeze the cheesecake, slice it first, and place the pieces in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, using wax paper between layers to maintain the quality. The cheesecake can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve cold for the best results!

Impress your friends and family with this rich and delightful Butter Pecan Cheesecake. Made with love and easy to create, it’s sure to become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire!

Butter Pecan Cheesecake

A creamy and buttery cheesecake topped with crunchy toasted pecans, perfect for gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Sweet

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Crust

• 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 0.25 cups ¼ cup sugar

For the Filling

• 16 oz 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cups 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large 3 large eggs

For the Pecan Topping

• 1 cup 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter
• 0.5 cups ½ cup brown sugar

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
• Bake for about 10 minutes and then let it cool.

Making the Filling

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
• Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just blended. Avoid overmixing to ensure a smooth texture.

Baking the Cheesecake

• Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

Preparing the Pecan Topping

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Stir in chopped pecans and brown sugar, mixing until the sugar is dissolved and pecans are evenly coated.
• Let cool slightly.

Assembly

• Once the cheesecake is baked and cooled, spread the pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake.
• Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
• Slice your heavenly creation and enjoy!

Notes

For a lighter version, consider using Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese. To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing and bake at a lower temperature.

Keyword Butter Pecan Cheesecake, Cheesecake, Creamy Cheesecake, Dessert Recipe, Pecan Topping