Ingredients
Crust:
- 9 cinnamon-flavored graham crackers
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or shortening to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Make the crust: Place the cinnamon graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed into crumbs.
- Add butter to crumbs: While the processor runs at low speed, slowly pour in the melted butter until the crumbs begin to clump and pull away from the sides.
- Press crust: Transfer the crust mixture into the greased springform pan, pressing it evenly and firmly into the bottom to form a solid base. Place the pan in the freezer for at least 20 minutes to set.
- Make cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric hand mixer at medium speed until smooth and lump-free.
- Add pumpkin and spice: Mix in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, continuing to beat at medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined, keeping the filling light and airy.
- Assemble cheesecake: Spread the pumpkin cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm and set.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish the chilled cheesecake with whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not confuse pumpkin puree with pumpkin pie filling; the puree has no added spices or sugars.
- Press the crust firmly to create a sturdy base that holds together well when sliced.
- Allow enough chilling time for the cheesecake to set correctly — overnight refrigeration yields the best texture.
- For a firmer crust, refrigeration after freezing is optional but recommended.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal without damaging the cheesecake edges.
- Adjust spice level by adding a pinch more pumpkin pie spice if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American