Name: Decadent Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 95 min
Yield: 12 (1 cheesecake (12 slices))
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup melted butter; 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup brown sugar

Indulge in the decadent delight of Butter Pecan Cheesecake – a dessert that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any special occasion. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, discovered during a birthday surprise for my butter pecan-loving husband. The velvety cheesecake, toasty pecans, and luscious caramel praline topping create a symphony of flavors and textures that will have your guests convinced you’re a master baker. Trust me, this cheesecake is easier to make than it looks!

Every bite of this Butter Pecan Cheesecake tells a story – from the moment it replaced the traditional pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving to the sweet family traditions it has sparked. Perfecting this recipe over the years has been a labor of love, from adjusting the sugar balance to finding that ideal pecan-to-cheesecake ratio. Serve it chilled, garnished with whipped cream rosettes and toasted pecans, for a stunning presentation that matches its exquisite taste. And don’t be afraid to get creative with additions like bourbon, cinnamon, or espresso powder for a personalized touch. Hiding an extra slice in the fridge might just become your new family tradition too!

Table of Contents

Quick Benefits

Perfect balance of flavors and textures with velvety cheesecake, toasty pecans, and caramel praline topping
Rich and indulgent dessert that impresses guests without requiring all-day kitchen effort
Versatile recipe with options for flavor variations like bourbon, cinnamon, nutmeg, or espresso powder
Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for convenient prep and storage options

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe Recipe

Incredible Flavor Combination: The velvety cheesecake, toasty pecans, and caramel praline topping create a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Impress Without the Effort: Despite its gourmet taste, this cheesecake is much easier to make than it looks, making it perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests.
Family Favorite: This recipe has won over even the pickiest eaters. It has become a new holiday tradition for many and has left guests wanting more.
Customizable: With variations like adding bourbon for a grown-up twist, cinnamon and nutmeg for a holiday flavor, or espresso powder for a mocha-pecan variation, you can tailor this recipe to suit different preferences.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this cheesecake in advance, either storing it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freezing it for up to a month, making it a convenient dessert for busy schedules or planned events.
Beautiful Presentation: Impress your guests with a beautifully presented cheesecake. Pipe whipped cream rosettes around the edges and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an added touch of elegance.
Comforting and Indulgent: This cheesecake strikes the perfect balance between familiar comfort and special indulgence. It will leave your guests feeling satisfied and delighted with every bite.

Ingredients for Decadent Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe

For the Crust

½ cup melted butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup brown sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
½ cup brown sugar
2 (8oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
½ tsp salt
1 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup granulated sugar

For the Pecan Praline Topping

½ cup butter
1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Decadent Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar, then press into a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a bowl, beat cream cheese, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla, salt, and toasted pecans. Pour over crust and bake for 50-55 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Pecan Praline Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar. Then add heavy cream and simmer until thickened. Stir in vanilla and pecans, and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

Allow the cheesecake to cool and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours. Then, pour the pecan praline topping over the cheesecake and garnish with whipped cream and extra pecans.

Storage Tips

To store the finished butter pecan cheesecake, it is best to keep it in the refrigerator. Cover the cheesecake loosely with foil to allow air circulation and prevent the praline topping from sticking. The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its flavor and texture well during this time. When serving leftovers, ensure to cover the cheesecake again with foil after cutting slices to preserve its freshness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the butter pecan cheesecake without the praline topping. Wrap the cheesecake securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and store it in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator and add the freshly made praline topping before serving. This freezing method allows you to prepare the cheesecake portion in advance, making it a convenient option for planning special occasions or gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’d like to make a lighter version of this Butter Pecan Cheesecake, you can consider using reduced-fat cream cheese in place of the regular cream cheese. This substitution can help cut down on some of the richness while still maintaining a creamy texture in the filling. Additionally, if you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, you could experiment with using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of the granulated and brown sugars. Just be mindful of the potential changes in flavor and texture when using these alternatives.

For a nut-free version of this cheesecake, you can swap out the pecans for another type of nut or even a combination of seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if there are allergies or preferences to consider. Almonds or walnuts could be good alternatives that still offer a nice crunch and nutty flavor. You could also try incorporating toasted coconut flakes for a different twist on the topping, adding a tropical flair to the cheesecake. Be sure to adjust the quantities based on personal taste preferences and any dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, serve the butter pecan cheesecake with a dollop of bourbon-infused whipped cream on top. The hint of bourbon adds a sophisticated touch to this already decadent dessert. You can also garnish each slice with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg for a festive holiday twist that enhances the warm flavors of the pecans.

To take the butter pecan cheesecake to the next level, drizzle each slice with extra caramel sauce just before serving. The added caramel not only enhances the praline topping but also adds a glossy finish that makes the cheesecake look even more irresistible. This indulgent touch will have your guests reaching for seconds and asking for the recipe!

FAQs for Decadent Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe

Can I use a different type of nuts instead of pecans in this cheesecake?

Yes, you can definitely substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream for the cheesecake filling?

Using heavy cream is recommended for its richness and thickness, which contributes to the creamy texture of the cheesecake. Light cream may not provide the same results.

Can I omit the caramel praline topping if I prefer a plain cheesecake?

Yes, you can certainly skip the caramel praline topping if you prefer a plain butter pecan cheesecake. The filling itself is flavorful and delicious on its own.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake without the praline topping for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and add the freshly made topping before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Creating this Butter Pecan Cheesecake has been a labor of love, and sharing it with loved ones always brings such joy. The way the velvety cheesecake, toasty pecans, and decadent caramel praline topping come together is truly magical. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process of creating this delightful Butter Pecan Cheesecake. The reactions from your friends and family will make all the effort worthwhile. This dessert has the power to create lasting memories and bring a smile to everyone’s faces. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to recipe for gatherings and celebrations. Embrace the process, savor each bite, and let the magic of Butter Pecan Cheesecake delight your taste buds and warm your heart.

Decadent Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe

Indulge in velvety cheesecake with toasty pecans and caramel praline topping – a decadent butter pecan delight that’s easier to make than it looks!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time30 Minutes

Cook Time65 Minutes

Total Time95 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (1 cheesecake (12 slices))

Ingredients

For the Crust

½ cup melted butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup brown sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
½ cup brown sugar
2 (8oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
½ tsp salt
1 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup granulated sugar

For the Pecan Praline Topping

½ cup butter
1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar, then press into a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, beat cream cheese, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla, salt, and toasted pecans. Pour over crust and bake for 50-55 minutes.
Prepare Pecan Praline Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar. Then add heavy cream and simmer until thickened. Stir in vanilla and pecans, and let the mixture cool slightly.
Assemble & Serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours. Then, pour the pecan praline topping over the cheesecake and garnish with whipped cream and extra pecans.