Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form a firm crust.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden and set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, and flour until smooth.
• Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for another hour to cool gradually. Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.

3. Prepare the Pecan Topping:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the maple syrup (or corn syrup), brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
• Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
• Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans.
• Let the topping cool slightly before adding it to the cheesecake.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake:

• Once the cheesecake has fully set and chilled, pour the pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake.
• Use a spatula to spread it out gently, covering the entire top of the cheesecake.
• Refrigerate for an additional hour to allow the topping to set.

This Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy, smooth cheesecake and the nutty, caramelized goodness of pecan pie. It’s a rich and indulgent treat that’s sure to wow your guests and make any celebration extra special! 🍰🌰