Thanksgiving Desserts Cheesecake: 7 Delicious Memories Await

novembre 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when family gathers around the table, and the air is filled with the scent of spices and sweet treats. One dessert that never fails to impress is my Thanksgiving cheesecake. Picture this: a velvety, creamy filling that just melts in your mouth, nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s the perfect balance of rich and light, and trust me, it steals the show every time! I remember the first Thanksgiving I made this cheesecake; it disappeared faster than I could slice it! So, if you want to wow your guests and create unforgettable memories, this cheesecake is the way to go. Let’s dive into how to make it together!

Ingredients List

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup sugar (divided into two portions)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup sugar (for the filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Desserts Cheesecake

Preparing the Crust

Let’s start with that delicious graham cracker crust! First, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. You want it to resemble wet sand—this is the secret to a perfect crust! Once mixed, pour this mixture into a 9-inch springform pan. Press it down firmly using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers, making sure it’s evenly spread across the bottom. This crust is the foundation of your cheesecake, so don’t skimp on the pressing!

Making the Filling

Now for the star of the show: the filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat 4 packages of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar together until smooth and creamy—this is where the magic starts! Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well. Next, and this is important, add the eggs one at a time. Beat just until incorporated after each addition; we don’t want to overmix! Then, gently fold in 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice. The mixture should be silky and luscious, almost begging to be poured into that crust!

Baking the Cheesecake

With your filling ready, it’s time to bake! Carefully pour the filling over your prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—this will firm up as it cools. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect creamy texture, not a dry cheesecake!

Cooling and Serving

Once baked, let your cheesecake cool in the pan for about an hour. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours—this step is crucial for those flavors to meld beautifully! When you’re ready to serve, remove the sides of the springform pan. I like to top mine with a generous dollop of whipped cream for that extra indulgence. You can also sprinkle a little more pumpkin spice on top to make it look festive! Enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake is everything you want in a holiday treat! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:

Quick preparation: You can whip up this cheesecake in no time—perfect for those busy holiday schedules!
Rich and creamy texture: The combination of cream cheese and pumpkin puree creates a luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for holiday gatherings: It’s a showstopper on any Thanksgiving table, and your guests will be raving about it long after the meal is over!
Can be made in advance: Prepare it a day ahead and just let it chill in the fridge. Less stress on the big day means more time to enjoy with family!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying my Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per slice, based on the ingredients used:

Calories: 350
Sugar: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 300mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. Enjoy this creamy delight in moderation, and it’ll definitely add a sweet touch to your Thanksgiving feast!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make this Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake, here are some of my top tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect:

Ingredient temperature matters: Make sure to bring your cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth and creamy filling without any lumps!
Mix gently: When you’re adding the eggs, beat them in one at a time and mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your cheesecake, and we want it to be lovely and smooth!
Water bath optional: If you want to get a little fancy, baking your cheesecake in a water bath can help keep it moist and prevent cracking. Just wrap the outside of your springform pan with foil to keep water out, and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water!
Oven thermometer: Ovens can be tricky, and temperature can vary. Investing in an oven thermometer can help ensure you’re baking at the right temperature, leading to even better results.
Cooling is key: Don’t rush the cooling process! Let the cheesecake cool in the pan for about an hour before refrigerating. This helps it set properly and enhances the flavors!
Chill before serving: Give your cheesecake at least 4 hours in the fridge (overnight is even better!). This allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to become perfectly creamy.
Serve with flair: When you’re ready to serve, don’t be shy with the toppings! A dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin spice, or even some caramel sauce can elevate your cheesecake to a whole new level!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to impressing everyone at your Thanksgiving gathering. Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up with your Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake, I’ve got some fun variations for you to try! These little tweaks can take your cheesecake from classic to extraordinary, and I can’t wait to share them!

Chocolate Swirl: For all the chocolate lovers out there, melt some dark chocolate and swirl it into the filling before baking. Just make sure to reserve a bit for drizzling on top after it cools. It adds a decadent twist that’s sure to wow your guests!
Maple Pumpkin: Swap out the regular sugar in the filling for pure maple syrup. It gives a lovely depth of flavor and pairs perfectly with pumpkin. Just remember to adjust the consistency a bit, as syrup is liquid!
Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices! Instead of just pumpkin spice, try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of ginger for a warm, cozy flavor that screams fall. You can mix and match to find your perfect blend!
Nutty Crust: Give your graham cracker crust a little crunch by adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the mixture. This adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the cheesecake beautifully!
Fruit-tastic: Fold in some finely chopped apples or pears into the filling for a fruity surprise. You could even top the cheesecake with a homemade fruit compote for a fresh finish!
Cheesecake Bars: Want a portable option? Pour the filling into a lined baking dish instead of a springform pan. Cut into bars after cooling and refrigerating for a fun twist on serving!

These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to personalize your Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake to your taste. So, don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own! Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this incredible Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake, and now you’re left with some delicious leftovers. Lucky you! Storing your cheesecake properly is key to keeping that creamy goodness intact for days to come. Here’s how I do it:

Refrigeration: First off, make sure to cover your cheesecake tightly. I like to use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. If you’ve still got it in the springform pan, just wrap the whole thing up!
Storage duration: Your cheesecake will last in the refrigerator for about 5-7 days. Trust me, it won’t last that long because it’s just too good!
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can absolutely freeze it! Just slice the cheesecake into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
No reheating needed: This cheesecake is best served chilled, so you won’t need to heat it up. Just take it out of the fridge, let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature, and you’re good to go!

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake over and over without losing that delightful texture and flavor. Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Can I make this cheesecake a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead is a fantastic idea. It allows the flavors to develop and the cheesecake to set perfectly in the fridge. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh!

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. A good tip is to look for a lightly golden edge and a slightly puffed center—it’ll look almost like it’s still wiggling a bit!

Can I use a different crust?
Of course! While the graham cracker crust is a classic, you can absolutely switch it up. Try using crushed Oreos for a chocolatey twist, or even a nut-based crust if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just keep the measurements similar to ensure it holds up well!

What if I want to add more flavor to my cheesecake?
Feel free to get creative! You can mix in some chocolate chips, add a swirl of caramel, or even use different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique flavor profile. This Thanksgiving desserts cheesecake is super versatile!

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but do keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly. It may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still be delicious! Just make sure to soften it well before mixing for the best results.

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.