Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a bowl, then stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until lightly fragrant and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and light brown sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture; beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
- One at a time, beat in the eggs, mixing just until combined after each addition. The mixture should be smooth with no streaks.
- In a small bowl, mix cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. Add these spices to the batter and beat until evenly distributed, creating a fragrant, well-spiced filling.
- Pour the spicy pumpkin filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Bake the cheesecake in the center of the oven for 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles when shaken.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour to prevent cracks, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavors before serving.
- Slice the chilled cheesecake with a sharp knife, and enjoy the rich, spiced flavor with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Notes
For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling. Adjust spice levels according to taste preferences.
