Name: Creme Brulee Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 25 min
Total time: 7 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 oz ginger snap cookies, pulsed to crumbles; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1-2 oz ginger snap cookies, chopped; 32 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup sour cream; 2 eggs, room temperature; 1 ¼ cup pumpkin puree; ¾ cup white granulated sugar; 2 Tbsp cornstarch; 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/3 cup superfine sugar; 1 culinary blow torch

Jump to Recipe·4 from 2 reviews

If you’re looking to elevate your dessert game this season, this Creme Brulee Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine the creamy richness of classic pumpkin cheesecake mingling with the delicate crispness of a brûléed sugar topping, reminiscent of the elegant French custard dessert we all adore. The warm autumn spices paired with a ginger snap crust bring a cozy yet sophisticated flavor that will impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a special treat for yourself, this cheesecake promises deep, luscious flavor and a stunning presentation that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients arranged neatly on a worn wooden surface, now described as white marbled texture. In the top left is a large metal bowl filled with small round ginger snap cookies that are light brown with a cracked texture. Next to it, there is a small glass bowl containing melted butter that looks yellow and smooth. To the right, a tiny white bowl holds a small amount of ground cinnamon, orange-brown in color. Below, there is a small glass bowl with two whole eggs, brown and smooth. In the center, another small glass bowl contains thick white sour cream with a creamy texture. On the right, a clear pitcher has bright orange pumpkin puree with a slightly chunky surface. Two wrapped blocks of cream cheese in silver foil lie next to the pitcher. At the bottom left is a clear measuring cup filled with white granulated sugar. Nearby, small white bowls hold baking powder, a cinnamon and sugar mix, and ground nutmeg from left to right. Lastly, a black cooking torch with a brass nozzle is placed at the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this cheesecake is simpler than it looks, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the spicy ginger snaps in the crust to the perfectly spiced pumpkin filling and the crisp brûlée topping, every component works harmoniously to deliver a memorable dessert.

14 oz ginger snap cookies: Pulsed into fine crumbles to create a flavorful and crunchy crust base with a spicy kick.
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Infuses the crust with warm autumn spices for depth.
5 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cookie crumbs together while adding richness.
1-2 oz ginger snap cookies, chopped: Adds bursts of texture on top of the crust for a delightful surprise.
32 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy and tangy foundation of the cheesecake filling.
½ cup sour cream: Contributes smoothness and subtle tang to balance sweetness.
2 eggs, room temperature: Help set the cheesecake beautifully while adding richness.
1 ¼ cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings seasonal flavor and moisture.
¾ cup white granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering.
2 Tbsp cornstarch: Ensures a firm yet tender texture by stabilizing the filling.
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Boldly enhances the pumpkin flavor with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds another layer of warm spice complexity.
1/3 cup superfine sugar: Used for the signature brûlée topping that crisps beautifully under a torch.
Culinary blow torch: Essential to create the caramelized sugar crust that defines the creme brulee experience.

How to Make Creme Brulee Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 325℉ and grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly. Because this cheesecake bakes in a water bath, you’ll need a larger roasting pan to hold water around the cheesecake. To protect your pan from leaks, wrap it with heavy-duty aluminum foil. This extra step ensures a smooth baking experience without water ruining your crust or filling.

Step 2: Make the Spiced Ginger Snap Crust

Pulse those ginger snap cookies in your food processor until you have fine, sandy crumbs. Mix these crumbs with melted butter and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to infuse that irresistible fall aroma into the crust. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Scatter chopped ginger snaps over the crust for delightful texture that shines through every bite.

Step 3: Whip Up the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese until fluffy and smooth—that’s the secret to a creamy, lump-free cheesecake. Gradually add sugar, beating well, then incorporate eggs one at a time to maintain a silky texture. Next, blend in pumpkin puree and sour cream to combine luscious moisture with tang. Finish by folding in pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and cornstarch on low speed to create a perfectly spiced, thick filling ready to bake.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake in a Water Bath

Pour your luscious batter over the crust and place the springform pan inside your larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. This gentle steam bath prevents cracking and ensures even baking. Bake for 80 to 85 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Then turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside with the door slightly open to cool gradually.

Step 5: Chill and Prepare the Brûlée Topping

After baking, cool the cheesecake on the counter for a little while before refrigerating it covered for at least four hours or overnight to fully set. When ready to serve, remove the springform ring, and sprinkle superfine sugar evenly over the top. Using your culinary blow torch, carefully melt the sugar until it forms a golden, crispy crust reminiscent of a classic creme brulee. Let the top cool and harden for about five minutes before slicing.

How to Serve Creme Brulee Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

A cheesecake with two layers is shown. The top layer is creamy light beige with a caramelized golden-brown shiny surface that has some darker spots. The bottom layer is a thin, crumbly brown crust. A single thick slice is lifted away from the round cheesecake, showing the smooth texture inside. The cheesecake is on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. A silver torch with black and red parts is to the side, used for browning the top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cinnamon or a few whole toasted pecans are elegant garnishes that complement the rich pumpkin and caramelized sugar topping beautifully. Fresh whipped cream with a hint of vanilla provides a light and creamy contrast, making each bite even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea, freshly brewed coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. These sides echo the warm spices while balancing the richness of the dessert perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve individual slices on decorative plates with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of edible gold dust over the brûlée topping. Mini pumpkin-shaped chocolates or cinnamon sticks make for charming accents on the side that complete the autumnal vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once made, cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy this indulgence whenever the craving strikes.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save leftovers long-term, freeze the cheesecake without the brûlée topping first. Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the sugar topping just before serving to keep the crisp texture intact.

Reheating

Bring chilled cheesecake to room temperature before serving to soften the texture and flavors. Avoid microwaving as it can ruin the delicate texture. Use your blow torch to recrisp the sugar topping if needed after warming slightly.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust for this cheesecake?

Absolutely! While the ginger snap crust adds fantastic spice and texture, you can swap it for graham crackers or even a buttery shortbread crust. Just be sure the crust complements the pumpkin and spice profile.

Is it necessary to use a water bath when baking?

Yes, the water bath gently cooks the cheesecake and prevents cracks by providing moist heat and even temperature distribution. It’s a small extra step that really makes a difference in texture and appearance.

Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free or vegan?

Substituting cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based versions may work, but results can vary in texture. Also, ensure ginger snaps and other ingredients fit your dietary needs. It’s a fun experiment but expect some difference from the classic richness.

How long should I wait before caramelizing the sugar topping?

Chill the cheesecake for at least four hours or preferably overnight. Before caramelizing, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to reduce condensation, which helps the sugar crisp up perfectly.

What if I don’t have a culinary blow torch?

While a blow torch gives that authentic crisp brûlée crust, you can broil the cheesecake sugar topping for a few minutes under close watch. However, it’s easier to burn the sugar this way and won’t be quite as even or precise.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this incredible Creme Brulee Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe, it will become your new go-to dessert for the season. There’s something so special about the contrast of creamy, spiced filling and the crackling caramelized sugar crust that feels like a celebration in every bite. Give it a whirl—you’ll be amazed how such simple ingredients transform into a showstopper no one will forget.