Method
Step 1 – Prep the Pan
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, letting excess hang over edges.
Step 2 – Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- Fold dry ingredients into pumpkin-cream cheese mixture until smooth.
Step 3 – Bake
- Pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes until top is dark golden brown and center is slightly jiggly.
Step 4 – Cool & Serve
- Let cheesecake cool completely in the pan.
- Chill for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before slicing.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Best served chilled — do not reheat.
🥄 Variations
Extra Spiced: Add cloves or allspice for deeper flavor.
Creamier Texture: Replace ½ cup flour with ½ cup heavy cream.
Nutty Crunch: Top with candied pecans before serving.
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins with liners for 20–25 minutes.
❓ 10 FAQs
What makes Basque cheesecake different?
It’s baked at high heat for a caramelized top and creamy center. Do I need a water bath?
No — Basque cheesecakes are meant to be rustic and crackly. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?
Yes, just cook and mash until smooth. How do I know it’s done baking?
The center should jiggle slightly but not be liquid. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. What size pan works best?
A 9-inch springform pan is standard. Do I need to peel off the parchment edges?
Leave them for rustic presentation or trim before serving. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, reduce by up to ¼ cup without affecting texture. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely — it tastes even better after a day of chilling. What toppings go well?
Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or spiced nuts. 🏁 Conclusion
This Pumpkin Spice Basque Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and infused with the warm flavors of fall. Its caramelized top and rustic look make it a stunning yet easy dessert for Thanksgiving, holidays, or any autumn gathering.
It’s baked at high heat for a caramelized top and creamy center. Do I need a water bath?
No — Basque cheesecakes are meant to be rustic and crackly. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?
Yes, just cook and mash until smooth. How do I know it’s done baking?
The center should jiggle slightly but not be liquid. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. What size pan works best?
A 9-inch springform pan is standard. Do I need to peel off the parchment edges?
Leave them for rustic presentation or trim before serving. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, reduce by up to ¼ cup without affecting texture. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely — it tastes even better after a day of chilling. What toppings go well?
Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or spiced nuts. 🏁 Conclusion
This Pumpkin Spice Basque Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and infused with the warm flavors of fall. Its caramelized top and rustic look make it a stunning yet easy dessert for Thanksgiving, holidays, or any autumn gathering.
