Ingredients
Base
Filling
Caramel
Instructions
Step 1
Cut the pumpkin into pieces and roast in the oven for 30 minutes. Allow to cool. Blitz the cooked pumpkin into a smooth puree.
Step 2
Crush the shortbread cookies into fine crumbs and mix in the melted butter. Combine until it resembles wet sand. Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper and press the mixture into the bottom and sides to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3
In a large bowl, whisk together the *cream cheese*, *eggs*, *sugar*, and *heavy cream* until a smooth consistency is achieved. Stir in the pumpkin puree and combine thoroughly.
Step 4
Place a dish with water on the bottom of the oven. Preheat the oven to *130°C (265°F)*. Bake the cheesecake for *1.5 hours*. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step 5
In a saucepan with a thick bottom, melt the sugar over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add the room temperature butter and salt, and stir quickly. Pour in the *hot cream*, mix thoroughly, and remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly and mix in the peanuts.
Step 6
Pour the caramel over the cooled cheesecake, spreading evenly. Allow it to set slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin cheesecake with caramel topping!
Servings
Sliced Elegance: 🎂 Cut your Pumpkin Cheesecake with a hot, sharp knife for clean edges. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each slice for professional-looking results.
Autumn Picnic: 🍁 Serve slices on rustic wooden boards alongside fresh whipped cream to evoke a cozy autumn picnic feel. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth.
Festive Tablescape: 🎉 Elevate your presentation by garnishing each slice with roasted pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of additional caramel. Pair with your favorite autumn beverages like spiced cider or pumpkin-infused latte for a flavor-filled experience.
Equipment
Essential for achieving the perfect shape and easy release of your cheesecake. Make sure to line the base with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Ideal for crushing biscuits and creating a smooth pumpkin purée. Ensure your processor is powerful enough to handle these tasks for efficient preparation.
A set of bowls in various sizes will streamline your ingredient preparation. Use larger bowls for mixing the cheesecake filling for smoother results.
Perfect for achieving a silky smooth cheesecake filling by thoroughly combining ingredients.
Use this for making the luscious caramel sauce. A thick base prevents burning and ensures even heat distribution.
Place a tray with water at the bottom of the oven to maintain moisture and prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
Variations
Gluten-Free Delight: 🌾 For a gluten-free version, replace the traditional biscuit base with gluten-free cookies. Ensure all other ingredients used are certified gluten-free to cater to all guests with dietary restrictions.
Vegan Twist: 🌿 Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream in place of regular cream. Use flax eggs instead of conventional eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to maintain the creamy texture.
Faq
- Why is my cheesecake cracking on top?
Your oven might be too hot, or the cheesecake cooled too quickly. Place a water tray in the oven for moisture and let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open before refrigerating.
- Can I use a different type of squash instead of pumpkin?
Definitely! Butternut squash is a great alternative. Just make sure to roast it well and purée it to achieve a similar texture and flavor.
- How can I make the caramel sauce thicker?
Allow the caramel to simmer a bit longer on low heat, ensuring constant stirring to prevent burning. This allows extra water to evaporate for a thicker consistency.
- What other nuts can be used instead of peanuts?
Try using pecans or walnuts for a different texture and taste. Toast them lightly before adding to enhance their flavor.
- Can I prepare this cheesecake in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day ahead. In fact, letting it chill overnight enhances the flavor and ensures it holds its shape when sliced.
- What’s the best way to store leftover cheesecake?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually and freeze them for up to a month.