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Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

4.7 from 81 reviews

This creamy and luscious Cheesecake with Pumpkin Swirl combines the rich texture of classic cream cheese filling with a festive and flavorful pumpkin swirl. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch and spice, perfectly complementing the smooth, spiced pumpkin infusion. Ideal for autumn gatherings or a cozy dessert treat, this cheesecake is baked with a gentle water bath to achieve a crack-free surface and velvety bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¾ cup sour cream (room temperature)

For the Pumpkin Swirl:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Optional Garnishes:

  • Whipped cream
  • Caramel drizzle
  • Crushed pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool while you make the filling.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Base: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until combined after each addition. Finally, mix in the sour cream until the batter is smooth—avoid overmixing to prevent cracks during baking.
  3. Prepare the Pumpkin Swirl Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, all-purpose flour, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Take about 1 cup of the prepared cheesecake batter and incorporate it into the pumpkin mixture to create the swirl batter.
  4. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the plain cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Spoon dollops of the pumpkin swirl mixture over the top, then use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the pumpkin into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect.
  5. Bake with Water Bath: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet. Carefully pour hot water into the baking sheet until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath helps maintain moisture and prevents cracking. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and leave the cheesecake inside to rest for 1 hour to gradually cool.
  6. Chill and Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to firm up. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan before serving. Garnish with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or crushed pecans or walnuts if desired for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Using room temperature cream cheese and sour cream ensures a smooth batter without lumps.
  • A water bath is key to achieving a crack-free cheesecake by providing gentle and even heat.
  • Do not overbeat the batter to prevent too much air incorporation, which can lead to cracks.
  • Allowing the cheesecake to rest in a slightly open oven helps it cool slowly and avoid sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.
  • For best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight before serving.
  • Substitute digestive biscuits if graham crackers are unavailable, adjusting sweetness if necessary.

Keywords: Cheesecake, Pumpkin Swirl, Pumpkin Cheesecake, Fall Dessert, Cream Cheese Dessert, Holiday Dessert, Autumn Recipe, Pumpkin Dessert