Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or stiffly whipped heavy cream
- Extra whipped cream and pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese Base: Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until it is completely smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps remaining before moving to the next step, as this guarantees a velvety cheesecake texture.
- Step 2: Incorporate Pumpkin and Spices: Add the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg to the bowl. Continue beating the mixture on medium speed until the colors are fully blended and the spices are evenly distributed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure every bit of mixture is incorporated.
- Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping using a rubber spatula. Use a slow “under-and-over” motion to keep the air in the mixture. Do not use the electric mixer for this step, as over-mixing will cause the cheesecake to lose its fluffiness and become too dense.
- Step 4: Fill the Crust and Chill: Spoon the pumpkin mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or the plastic lid that came with the crust. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the filling to set firmly.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Once the cheesecake is firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Slice into even wedges. Top each slice with an extra dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans if desired. Serve chilled for the best experience.
- Cook Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)