Butter Pecan Cheesecake

Vegetarian Butter Pecan Cheesecake Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 60 minutes | Servings: 8-10 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Butter Pecan Cheesecake is a decadent and rich dessert that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the nutty flavor of toasted pecans. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat for any day of the week.

History

The origins of Butter Pecan Cheesecake are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been inspired by the classic butter pecan ice cream flavor. The combination of buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and toasted pecans creates a delicious and indulgent dessert that has become a favorite among many.

Ingredients

1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 cups brown sugar, separated into 1 cup portions
0.33 cup melted butter or margarine
1.5 cups finely chopped and toasted pecans
3 (8 oz (227 g)) packages of softened cream cheese
3 large eggs
2 cups (8 oz (227 g)) sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 tsp butter flavoring

How to prepare

Combine cracker crumbs, 1 cup of sugar, butter, and 1 cup of pecans in a mixing bowl. Mix well. Set aside 1 cup of the mixture and firmly press the remaining mixture onto the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy. Gradually add 1.5 cups of sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add the sour cream and flavorings to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well. Stir in 0.5 cup of pecans.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top. Bake at 475°F for 10 minutes.
Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F and bake for an additional 50 minutes.
Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Then, refrigerate until chilled. Serve the cheesecake cold and plain. Use a chef's knife to divide the cheesecake into 8-10 pieces.

Variations

Try adding a caramel swirl to the cheesecake filling for a caramel pecan cheesecake.
Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Drizzle the cheesecake with chocolate sauce before serving for a decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.

- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the crust and filling enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the dessert.

- Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake filling, as this can lead to a dense and heavy texture.

- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean and neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Butter Pecan Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans for an extra special touch.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the pecans before adding them to the crust and filling enhances their flavor.

- Beating the cream cheese until light and fluffy ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.

- Baking the cheesecake at a high temperature initially helps to set the crust, while lowering the temperature for the remainder of the baking time ensures a creamy and evenly baked filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine in the crust for a richer flavor.

- Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in the filling.

- If you don't have butter flavoring, you can omit it or use a little extra vanilla extract.

Make Ahead Tips

Butter Pecan Cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This dessert actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Butter Pecan Cheesecake with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle caramel sauce or chocolate ganache over the top for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Butter Pecan Cheesecake with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a delightful pairing. The rich and creamy texture of the cheesecake pairs well with the bold flavors of coffee or the sweetness of a dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Butter Pecan Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature and enjoy cold or slightly warmed in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Butter Pecan Cheesecake contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Butter Pecan Cheesecake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Butter Pecan Cheesecake contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Butter Pecan Cheesecake contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Butter Pecan Cheesecake is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream) and nuts (pecans).

Summary

Butter Pecan Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fats and calories. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Butter Pecan Cheesecake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the nutty flavor of toasted pecans. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat for any day of the week. Enjoy a slice of this rich and decadent dessert with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a delightful pairing.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Butter Pecan Cheesecake. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother many years ago. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on the decadent dessert and I knew I had to give it a try.

I had always been fascinated by the art of baking. From a young age, I would watch my grandmother effortlessly whip up delicious treats in her cozy kitchen. She had a way of making everything look so easy, and I longed to follow in her footsteps. So when I stumbled upon the recipe for Butter Pecan Cheesecake, I felt a surge of excitement at the thought of mastering this classic dessert.

I set to work gathering all the ingredients I would need for the cheesecake. The recipe called for cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, and of course, butter pecans. I made a trip to the local market to pick up everything on my list, eager to get started on my culinary adventure.

As I began to mix the ingredients together, I couldn't help but think back to the days spent in my grandmother's kitchen. She had taught me so much about the art of baking, from the importance of using fresh ingredients to the perfect balance of flavors in each dish. I could almost hear her voice guiding me as I carefully measured out each component of the cheesecake.

The scent of buttery pecans filled the air as the cheesecake baked in the oven. I watched anxiously as it rose and set, a golden brown hue forming on the surface. When it was finally done, I let it cool on the countertop before cutting into it to reveal the creamy, nutty filling inside.

I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the rich flavors that danced on my tongue. The buttery pecans added a delightful crunch to the velvety cheesecake, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. I knew in that moment that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I shared the Butter Pecan Cheesecake with my family and friends, who marveled at its deliciousness. They couldn't believe that I had made such a delectable dessert from scratch. I felt a swell of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated a recipe that had been passed down through generations.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the Butter Pecan Cheesecake, making it for special occasions and gatherings. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to my grandmother and her love of cooking. I knew she would be proud to see me carrying on her legacy in the kitchen.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the recipe for Butter Pecan Cheesecake, I am filled with gratitude for all the knowledge and inspiration that has been passed down to me. Cooking has always been a way for me to express myself and connect with others, and this recipe is just one more piece of that puzzle.

I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will find joy in the kitchen and carry on the tradition of baking delicious treats. And who knows, maybe they will stumble upon the recipe for Butter Pecan Cheesecake in an old cookbook and feel the same sense of curiosity and excitement that I did all those years ago.