3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Pecan Pie Topping:

1 cup chopped pecans
½ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup corn syrup (light or dark)
¼ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a mixing bowl, blend together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Mix until well combined.
Firmly press the crumb mixture into the base of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool completely.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Using a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sugar until the texture is smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the eggs, incorporating one at a time and mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the middle is nearly set with a slight wobble.
Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly open, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for about an hour.
Take the cheesecake out of the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to chill completely.

Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping:

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until it reaches a boil.

Stir in the chopped pecans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.

Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the cheesecake with the pecan topping for at least an hour before serving.
Slice and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving: Serve the pecan pie cheesecake chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. It’s perfect as is or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage: keep any remaining cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
Use a Water Bath: Placing the springform pan in a water bath during baking can help prevent cracks and keep the cheesecake moist.

Health Benefits

While pecan pie cheesecake is a decadent dessert, pecans offer some health benefits. They are packed with beneficial fats, dietary fiber, and high-quality protein. Pecans also contain essential vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which are important for overall health. However, this dessert should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar and calorie content.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings)
Calories: 600
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 140mg
Sodium: 320mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 35g
Protein: 7g

Variations and Substitutions

Crust Alternatives: Swap graham cracker crumbs for crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even chocolate cookies for a different flavor.
Nut-Free Option: If you need a nut-free alternative, replace the pecan topping with a caramel sauce or a fruit compote.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make the dessert gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to two days in advance. Prepare as directed, refrigerate, and add the topping on the day you plan to serve it.

What if my cheesecake cracks?
A cracked cheesecake is still delicious! You can cover any cracks with the pecan pie topping.

Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely. Walnuts or almonds would also work well in place of pecans.

Conclusion

Pecan pie cheesecake is the ultimate fusion dessert, combining the best of two beloved treats into one indulgent dish. Whether served at holiday dinners, family gatherings, or as a special dessert, it’s sure to impress. With its creamy texture and sweet, nutty topping, this cheesecake is a true crowd-pleaser.