Cozy Up with Ina Garten’s Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Sweet autumn whispers dance through kitchens, bringing warmth and comfort with this irresistible Ina Garten pumpkin cheesecake recipe that promises pure indulgence.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with seasonal spices, creating a dessert that captures the essence of fall.

Silky smooth and rich, each slice tells a story of culinary elegance.

The perfect balance of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a decadent experience that melts in your mouth.

Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg weave magic through every delectable bite.

This dessert stands as a testament to Garten’s exceptional baking skills, offering a luxurious treat that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Grab your apron and get ready to impress with a cheesecake that will become the star of any gathering.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 35 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Total Time: 2 hour 15 minutes

Calories: 450 kcal

Servings: 8

What Goes in Ina Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a buttery, crisp foundation that adds delightful texture and warmth to the cheesecake.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, golden base.
• Sugar: Enhances the sweetness and helps the crust caramelize beautifully.

• Cream Cheese: Creates the smooth, luxurious core of the cheesecake with its creamy consistency.
• Sugar: Balances and sweetens the tangy cream cheese perfectly.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds vibrant autumn flavor and gorgeous orange color to the cheesecake.
• Sour Cream: Brings a subtle tanginess and helps create an ultra-silky texture.
• Eggs: Bind the filling and provide structure to the cheesecake.
• Vanilla Extract: Deepens the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Infuses classic fall warmth with its blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices.
• Salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors in the filling.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a light, fluffy whipped cream that adds elegance and richness to the finished dessert.

Tools for Baking Ina Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake

• Springform Pan (9-inch): Essential for creating a smooth, tall cheesecake without breaking the delicate cake.
• Aluminum Foil: Wraps pan to prevent water leakage during the water bath baking method.
• Electric Mixer: Perfect for blending cream cheese and creating a smooth, fluffy filling.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining cheesecake ingredients and mixing thoroughly.
• Roasting Pan: Holds water bath during baking to keep cheesecake moist and prevent cracking.
• Kettle: Boils water for the water bath technique.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.
• Whisk: Helps mix ingredients evenly and break up any cream cheese lumps.
• Rubber Spatula: Scrapes bowl sides and folds ingredients gently without overmixing.

Steps to Make Ina Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake

• Cozy Kitchen Preparation

Set up your baking space with all needed equipment. Gather a springform pan and wrap it carefully with foil to prevent any water from seeping in during baking.

• Crunchy Graham Base

Create a delicious foundation by combining graham cracker pieces with melted butter and a touch of sweetness. Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid base. Bake briefly to enhance the flavor and texture.

• Creamy Pumpkin Filling

Blend cream cheese until silky smooth, gradually adding sugar to create a fluffy mixture. Incorporate pumpkin puree, sour cream, warm autumn spices, and vanilla. Gently fold in eggs, ensuring everything is mixed thoroughly without overmixing.

• Gentle Baking Process

Place the cheesecake in a water bath, which helps create a smooth, crack-free surface. Bake slowly and carefully, allowing the edges to set while keeping the center slightly soft. After initial baking, let the cheesecake rest in the warm oven with the door slightly open.

• Cooling and Serving

Refrigerate the cheesecake overnight to develop rich flavors. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a short while. Garnish with a dollop of fresh whipped cream to complete this decadent autumn dessert.

Tweaks for Ina Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake Flavor

• Swap graham crackers with gingersnap or shortbread cookies for a unique flavor twist that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Experiment with different spice blends like pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, or add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to enhance the warm, autumnal flavors.
• Avoid overmixing the batter, use room temperature ingredients, and let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent unsightly surface cracks.
• Elevate the dessert with candied pecans, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to create a stunning presentation that'll impress your guests.
• This cheesecake keeps perfectly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

Presenting Ina Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake at the Table

• Garnish with Seasonal Flair: Top the cheesecake with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pecans for a festive autumn touch.
• Create Whipped Cream Swirls: Pipe elegant dollops of fresh whipped cream around the edges or create a beautiful pattern on top of the cheesecake.
• Pair with Warm Beverages: Serve alongside a steaming mug of spiced chai tea or a rich espresso to complement the pumpkin's warm flavors.
• Add Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the dessert with a light drizzle of salted caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.

How to Store Ina Garten Pumpkin Cheesecake Properly

• Maximize Freshness: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping its delicate texture and rich flavor intact.
• Freeze for Later: Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring a delightful treat is always within reach.
• Thaw with Care: Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to slowly defrost and maintain its creamy consistency without losing moisture.
• Serve Perfectly: Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving, letting it come to a slightly cool room temperature to enhance its smooth, velvety texture and bring out the full depth of pumpkin and spice flavors.