Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake

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A slice of this layered pumpkin cheesecake is like a cozy autumn hug in dessert form. Rich, velvety pumpkin meets creamy cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust to create a layered masterpiece that’s perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or any time you’re craving comfort with a touch of elegance.

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What makes this dessert extra special is the balance of spice and smoothness. The pumpkin layer is warm with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, while the cheesecake layer brings just the right amount of tang. Top it off with a swirl of whipped cream, and you’ve got a showstopper that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake

This isn’t your average pumpkin dessert. With its creamy texture, crisp graham crust, and distinct layers, each bite is a symphony of flavors. It’s a great make-ahead option too, meaning less stress when you’re hosting. And let’s be honest, it looks just as good as it tastes!

What Kind of Crust Works Best for Pumpkin Cheesecake?

A graham cracker crust is the classic go-to for a reason—its honeyed crunch complements the smooth filling perfectly. But you can experiment with ginger snaps or even crushed Biscoff cookies if you want a spicy twist.


Ingredients for the Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake

To create the perfect layers, each ingredient plays a specific role in flavor and texture:

  • Graham cracker crumbs – This forms the buttery, slightly sweet base that holds everything together.
  • Melted butter – Binds the crumbs into a crust and adds rich flavor.
  • Granulated sugar – Sweetens both the crust and the cheesecake filling.
  • Cream cheese – The star of the cheesecake layer, lending tangy richness and smooth body.
  • Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and gives it that classic dessert aroma.
  • Eggs – Crucial for structure, helping the cheesecake set as it bakes.
  • Pumpkin puree – Brings moisture, earthy sweetness, and gorgeous color.
  • Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves – These spices warm the pumpkin filling with familiar fall notes.
  • Whipped cream – Optional but delightful for topping when serving.

How To Make the Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar. Press into the bottom of a springform pan and bake briefly to set.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

Beat softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Divide the batter in half.

Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Layer

To one half of the batter, stir in pumpkin puree and spices. Pour the plain batter over the cooled crust, then gently pour the pumpkin batter on top.

Step 4: Bake with Care

Bake in a water bath if you prefer no cracks, or simply place in the oven and bake until just set. Cool slowly to prevent splitting, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, slice, and serve chilled.


How to Serve and Store Your Cheesecake

This layered pumpkin cheesecake serves 10-12 people, making it a great choice for holiday parties or dinner guests. For serving, keep it chilled until just before slicing for the cleanest cuts. A warm knife works wonders for neat slices.

To store, wrap the cheesecake tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully—just slice and wrap each piece individually if you want to grab a quick dessert later.

What to Serve With Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake?

Spiced Chai Latte

The warming spices in chai echo the flavors in the cheesecake, making for a perfect pairing.

Cranberry Compote

A tart contrast that cuts through the richness and adds a splash of holiday color.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over each slice for a decadent twist.

Maple Pecan Ice Cream

If you want to double down on indulgence, this combo is a dream.

Roasted Nuts

Serve a small bowl of candied pecans or almonds alongside for a crunchy bite.

Mulled Wine or Apple Cider

Both pair beautifully with the autumnal spices in the cheesecake.

Chocolate-Dipped Fruit

Think strawberries or figs to bring a bit of romance to the table.


Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If you’re all about creamy, layered desserts, you’ll love these other treats too:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you try a gingersnap crust? Add a chocolate drizzle? I love hearing about your twists.

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Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake

Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 5 hours
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This layered pumpkin cheesecake is a fall dessert dream. Creamy, spiced pumpkin filling sits atop a smooth vanilla cheesecake layer, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Each slice offers a blend of cozy autumn flavors and luscious textures, perfect for holidays or chilly nights in. Whether you need a quick dessert idea for Thanksgiving, an easy recipe to prep ahead for guests, or just something indulgent to satisfy a sweet craving, this dish delivers. Serve chilled for clean, beautiful slices—and don’t forget the whipped cream on top!


Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup melted butter

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/8 tsp ground cloves

Whipped cream, for topping (optional)


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into pan base. Bake 8 minutes, then cool.

3. Beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each.

4. Divide batter in half. Mix pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into one half.

5. Pour plain batter over crust, then gently add pumpkin batter on top. Smooth with spatula.

6. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until center is set. Cool at room temp, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

7. Serve chilled with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

Use a water bath to prevent cracking if desired.

Make sure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth batter.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: easy recipe, pumpkin dessert, holiday cheesecake, thanksgiving dessert, fall food ideas

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