Quick & Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe: A Fall Favorite

Autumn’s golden hues bring a delightful pumpkin cheesecake recipe that whispers comfort and warmth.

creamy layers of rich texture melt softly on your palate with each decadent bite.

This dessert captures the essence of cozy seasonal gatherings and sweet memories.

Silky smooth cream cheese blends perfectly with warm spices that dance across your taste buds.

The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch that complements the velvety filling.

Spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla, this cheesecake transforms an ordinary evening into a celebration.

Savor every moment and indulge in this irresistible fall treat that promises to delight and comfort.

How to Store No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake for Freshness

• Store the no-bake pumpkin cheesecake covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the dessert away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Place in an airtight container for extra protection against freezer burn.
• Remove the cheesecake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• Once thawed, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor.

FAQs

• What makes the crust unique in this No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake?

The crust uses Nilla Wafers mixed with pumpkin pie spice, creating a flavorful and aromatic base that complements the creamy pumpkin filling perfectly.

• Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Graham crackers are an excellent alternative to Nilla Wafers. You can swap them in a 1:1 ratio while maintaining the same delicious texture and flavor profile.

• Is a stand mixer necessary for this recipe?

While a stand mixer makes mixing easier and more consistent, you can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand with a bit more effort. The key is to ensure the cream cheese is smooth and well-combined.

Creamy No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Wonders

• Dive into a no-bake dessert that captures the warm, cozy essence of fall without turning on the oven, making it perfect for those who want a delicious treat without complex cooking techniques.
• Sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice, add caramel drizzle, or play with whipped topping decorations to make this cheesecake uniquely yours, offering endless personalization options.
• Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean you can prepare this crowd-favorite dessert in minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or family celebrations.

Everything Needed for No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bliss

• Nilla Wafers: Crisp cookies that create a sweet and crunchy base for the cheesecake.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm blend of spices that adds a cozy autumn flavor to the crust.
• Butter: Helps bind the crumbs together and provides a rich, smooth texture.

• Cream Cheese: The creamy foundation that gives the cheesecake its signature smooth and tangy character.
• Dark Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and rich color to the filling.
• Pumpkin Puree: Brings a classic fall flavor and beautiful orange hue to the cheesecake.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.

• Whipped Topping, Caramel Sauce: Provides a light, creamy finish and optional sweet drizzle to complement the pumpkin cheesecake.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A final sprinkle that adds an extra touch of warm, seasonal spice to the dessert.

Best Tools for a Silky Pumpkin Cheesecake Finish

• Food processor: Essential for grinding Nilla Wafers into fine crumbs and mixing crust ingredients.
• 9-inch springform pan: Perfect for creating and releasing the cheesecake without breaking.
• Stand mixer: Crucial for creaming cream cheese and achieving smooth, fluffy filling.
• Offset spatula: Helps create a smooth, even top for the cheesecake filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for folding whipped topping into the filling.
• Piping bag (optional): Great for decorative whipped topping application.

How to Make No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake at Home

Step 1: Crush Cookie Base

Grab your food processor and toss in Nilla Wafers with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

Pulse until you have fine, sandy crumbs.

Set aside a small portion of these crumbs for later garnishing.

Step 2: Bind Cracker Mixture

Drizzle melted butter over the cookie crumbs.

Give it a quick pulse in the food processor until the mixture looks like wet sand and holds together perfectly.

Step 3: Form Crust Foundation

Press the buttery crumb mixture into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even, compact layer.

Pop it in the freezer to firm up while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Whip Cream Cheese Base

In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese with dark brown sugar until the mixture becomes light, airy, and silky smooth.

This should take around 4-5 minutes of mixing.

Step 5: Blend Pumpkin Essence

• Pumpkin puree
• Vanilla extract
• Pumpkin pie spice

Blend until the filling looks completely smooth and integrated.

Step 6: Fold Creamy Topping

Gently incorporate whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture.

Use a soft folding motion to keep the filling light and fluffy.

Step 7: Spread Filling

Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling into the chilled crust.

Smooth the top with an offset spatula for a perfect finish.

Step 8: Chill And Set

Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate overnight or for a minimum of 6 hours to allow it to set completely.

Step 9: Decorate Magnificently

When ready to serve, add a layer of whipped topping.

Sprinkle the reserved crumbs and an extra dash of pumpkin pie spice for a gorgeous presentation.

Step 10: Slice And Enjoy

Remove the springform pan’s rim, slice the cheesecake, and serve.

For extra indulgence, drizzle some caramel sauce on top.

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Pro Tips for Creaminess

• Keep some reserved crumbs crunchy by sprinkling them just before serving to maintain their crisp texture and prevent sogginess.
• Fold whipped topping gently using a spatula to preserve air bubbles, ensuring a light and fluffy cheesecake consistency.
• Allow cheesecake to set completely overnight for maximum flavor development and optimal creamy texture.
• Adjust pumpkin pie spice to personal preference, starting with less and adding more gradually for balanced flavor.
• Use an offset spatula with smooth, consistent strokes to create a perfectly even cheesecake top without air pockets.

Fun Ways to Vary Your No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Crunch: Replace Nilla Wafers with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour cookies for a celiac-friendly crust.
• Vegan Creamy Option: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and use coconut whipped cream instead of traditional whipped topping.
• Low-Carb Autumn Treat: Substitute Nilla Wafers with crushed pecans and use a sugar substitute like erythritol to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-Free Pumpkin Dream: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut whipped cream to create a lactose-free version of the cheesecake.

Ideas to Serve No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake in Style

• Festive Fall Plating: Sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice on top for a warm, aromatic touch that enhances the seasonal flavor profile.
• Caramel Drizzle Delight: Generously pour rich caramel sauce over each slice, creating a luxurious and indulgent dessert experience that complements the creamy cheesecake.
• Whipped Cream Elegance: Create beautiful swirls of whipped topping using a piping bag, adding a professional and Instagram-worthy presentation that makes the dessert look as good as it tastes.
• Nutty Crunch Garnish: Sprinkle toasted pecans or chopped walnuts around the edges for a delightful textural contrast and additional autumnal flair.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

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4.9 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy pumpkin cheesecake blends autumn’s warmth with rich cream cheese on a graham cracker crust. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevate this classic dessert, inviting you to savor seasonal comfort in each delightful slice.

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Ingredients

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Crust Ingredients:

• 11 ounces (311 grams) Nilla Wafers
• 8 tablespoons (113 grams) salted butter, melted
• 0.5 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Filling Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup (240 grams) pumpkin puree
• 16 ounces (454 grams) whipped topping
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Optional Toppings:

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• Whipped cream

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Instructions

1. Pulverize Nilla Wafers and pumpkin pie spice in a food processor until finely ground, setting aside 2 tablespoons of the mixture for garnish.
2. Incorporate melted butter into the crumb mixture, pulsing until evenly distributed and cohesive.
3. Compress the crumb blend into the base of a 9-inch springform pan, then refrigerate to solidify the crust.
4. Whip cream cheese and dark brown sugar in a stand mixer until airy and smooth, approximately 4-5 minutes.
5. Blend pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and additional pumpkin pie spice into the cream cheese mixture until uniform and velvety.
6. Delicately fold whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring complete integration without deflating the volume.
7. Carefully spread the filling across the chilled crust, creating an even surface using an offset spatula.
8. Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 6 hours or ideally overnight to allow complete setting and flavor development.
9. Prior to serving, embellish the top with remaining whipped topping, sprinkling reserved crumbs and a dusting of pumpkin pie spice for visual appeal.
10. Liberate the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and optionally drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

Notes

• Crumb Consistency Matters: Pulse Nilla Wafers into fine, even crumbs for a smooth, compact crust that holds together perfectly without falling apart.
• Butter Temperature Tip: Use melted butter at room temperature to ensure even distribution and prevent clumping when mixing with cookie crumbs.
• Cream Cheese Technique: Beat cream cheese and brown sugar until ultra-smooth and fluffy, which prevents lumpy texture and ensures a silky cheesecake filling.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This no-bake dessert can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, making it ideal for stress-free entertaining and holiday gatherings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Chilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg