Bourbon Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Welcome to a delightful fusion of two Southern classics—bourbon pecan pie and creamy cheesecake. This showstopping dessert combines the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie with the smooth, tangy goodness of cheesecake, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for Derby Day celebrations or any occasion where you want to impress your guests, this dessert is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Texture Contrast: Experience the crunch of pecans, the silkiness of cheesecake, and the buttery crunch of the crust in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This dessert actually improves with an overnight chill, making it ideal for entertaining.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: Impressive enough for special occasions yet surprisingly straightforward to prepare.
• Southern-Inspired Flavors: Captures the essence of classic Derby Day desserts in a fresh, memorable form.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons bourbon whiskey (optional)
• 2 large eggs

For the Pecan Pie Topping:

• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2/3 cup maple syrup or dark corn syrup
• 1/2 cup warm cream
• 4 tablespoons cold butter
• 2 cups chopped roasted pecans
• Whole pecans, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Craft the Perfect Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (170°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Place in the fridge to chill while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Create Silky Smooth Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and milk until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add sour cream, flour, bourbon (if using), and eggs, mixing gently until just combined.
3. Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Let cool on a wire rack.

Step 3: Crown with Pecan Pie Topping

1. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk in egg yolks, maple syrup, and warm cream over low heat.
2. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat, add cold butter, and whisk until smooth. Fold in chopped pecans.
4. Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake. Garnish with whole pecans, if desired.
5. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set.

Serving Suggestions

For the ultimate Derby Day presentation, serve slices of this magnificent cheesecake alongside mint juleps in silver cups. The refreshing, bourbon-laced cocktail provides the perfect counterpoint to the dessert’s rich sweetness.

When slicing, dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts for picture-perfect portions. A dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans on each slice adds an elegant finishing touch that elevates the presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cheesecake is the perfect make-ahead dessert, actually improving with time as the flavors meld. Prepare it 1-2 days before your event and keep refrigerated until about 20 minutes before serving, when you should let it sit at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience.

For longer storage, the complete cheesecake can be frozen for up to two months. After the pecan topping has set, wrap the entire cheesecake (still in the springform pan) in a layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Individual slices can also be frozen, wrapped carefully in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container. This allows you to enjoy a special treat whenever the craving strikes—just thaw a single slice in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Pro Tips

• Water Bath Alternative: Place a pan of water on the rack below the cheesecake while baking to create humidity without the hassle of a traditional water bath.
• Prevent Topping Mishaps: Let the pecan mixture cool until just warm to the touch before pouring onto the cheesecake to prevent melting the top layer.
• Temperature Indicator: An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the cheesecake should read 150°F when it’s perfectly baked.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your love of Southern flavors, this Bourbon Pecan Pie Cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that make this dessert a standout!