Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie is a luxurious twist on the classic pumpkin pie, combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the warm, spiced pumpkin filling that we all love during the holidays. This dessert boasts a smooth, velvety texture and a perfectly spiced pumpkin flavor layered over a buttery, flaky crust.

The combination of pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and warm autumn spices makes it a dessert that is both festive and indulgent. Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, this cheesecake pie is creamy, decadent, and has a slight tang from the cream cheese that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines two classic favorites—pumpkin pie and cheesecake—into one decadent dessert. The cream cheese layer makes the pumpkin filling extra creamy and smooth, while the subtle spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger create that cozy, nostalgic holiday flavor.

It’s a dessert that feels special but isn’t overly complicated. Every bite delivers rich, creamy pumpkin flavor with just the right sweetness, making it a comforting and indulgent treat that everyone will love.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

1. Rich, Creamy Texture: Combines pumpkin pie and cheesecake into one decadent slice.
2. Perfect Holiday Dessert: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or fall gatherings.
3. Balanced Flavors: Sweet pumpkin, warm spices, and slight tang from cream cheese.
4. Impressive Presentation: A beautiful pie that looks professional but is easy to make.
5. Versatile: Can be topped with whipped cream, caramel, or pecans for extra flair.

Recipe Overview

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American / Holiday

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Cooling Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes

Servings: 10–12 slices

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ cup heavy cream

Optional Topping

• Whipped cream
• Caramel sauce
• Chopped pecans

Cooking Directions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) pie pan.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Add vanilla extract and continue beating.
7. Mix in pumpkin puree until well combined.
8. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, salt, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

9. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
10. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
11. Turn off the oven and let the pie sit in the oven for 10 minutes to prevent cracking.
12. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

How to Serve

• Slice into 10–12 pieces.
• Top with whipped cream, drizzle of caramel, or chopped pecans for extra flavor and presentation.
• Serve chilled for a creamy texture and optimal flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Helps avoid lumps in the filling.
• Prevent Cracks: Avoid overbaking; center should jiggle slightly when done.
• Spices: Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger according to taste.
• Graham Cracker Alternative: Use gingersnap cookies for a spicier crust.
• Cooling: Let the pie cool completely before refrigerating to maintain a smooth texture.

Variations

1. Gingerbread Crust: Substitute gingersnap crumbs for graham crackers.
2. Chocolate Swirl: Swirl melted chocolate into the filling before baking.
3. Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake: Replace part of the sugar with maple syrup.
4. Pecan Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans and brown sugar on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
5. Mini Pies: Make individual cheesecake pies in muffin tins for portion control or gift-giving.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Tip: Do not freeze whipped cream topping; add fresh before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch (23 cm) pie pan
• Medium mixing bowl for crust
• Large mixing bowl or stand mixer for filling
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Wire cooling rack
• Rubber spatula

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made pie crust, but graham cracker crust complements the cheesecake layer beautifully.

Q2: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 2 days; flavors improve as it chills.

Q3: Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Yes, roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but adjust for moisture content (about 1½ cups puree).

Q4: Why does my cheesecake crack?
Overbaking or sudden temperature changes can cause cracks; use gentle baking and cooling techniques.

Q5: Can I make mini pies?
Absolutely! Use muffin tins or tart pans for individual servings, adjusting baking time to 20–25 minutes.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie is a festive, indulgent dessert that combines the best of pumpkin pie and creamy cheesecake. Its smooth, spiced pumpkin filling, buttery crust, and optional toppings make it a show-stopping addition to any holiday table.

Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this pie is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall celebration, providing a rich, creamy, and flavorful finish to your meal. With this recipe, you’ll have a dessert that is both comforting and unforgettable, sure to become a new holiday tradition.