There’s something magical about cheesecake, isn’t there? It’s creamy, dreamy, and can be made into so many delicious flavors. But if there’s one version that holds a special place in my heart, it’s definitely the spiced pear cheesecake. I remember the first time I made it; it was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the air smelled of cinnamon and nutmeg. I had just returned from the farmers’ market with a bag full of fresh, juicy pears, and I felt inspired to whip up something special. Little did I know, it would become a beloved recipe that my friends and family still request every holiday season!
The combination of spiced pears and rich cheesecake can only be described as a cozy hug in dessert form. The tasty spices complement the sweetness of the pears perfectly, bringing out their flavor while adding warmth. Whether you want to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to a slice of something extraordinary, this spiced pear cheesecake is bound to become a go-to favorite!
What’s in Spiced Pear Cheesecake?
Graham Cracker Crust: The foundation of the cheesecake, this crust is buttery and slightly sweet, providing the perfect contrast to the richness of the filling. I love using Annie’s Organic Graham Crackers—they have a great flavor without any artificial ingredients.
Pears: As the star of the show, ripe pears add natural sweetness and moisture. I think Bosc pears work wonderfully in this recipe, as they hold their shape well when baked.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create the warm, aromatic notes that intertwine beautifully with the pears. Don’t skimp on these; they really elevate the vibe of the cheesecake!
Cream Cheese: This is the main player in the filling and gives the cheesecake its luscious texture. I usually reach for Philadelphia Cream Cheese, as it’s reliable and creamy—just what we need!
Sugar: A blend of granulated sugar and brown sugar is used here for sweetness, with the brown sugar adding a touch of caramel flavor that pairs well with the spices.
Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and helping the cheesecake set. Room temperature eggs work best for that smooth consistency.
Sour Cream: This adds a tangy flavor and helps balance the sweetness of the cheesecake. I often use Daisy Brand Sour Cream because it’s rich and creamy.
Is Spiced Pear Cheesecake Good for You?
Now, let’s not kid ourselves; spiced pear cheesecake is a dessert, and while it has some lovely elements, it’s intended for indulging. However, there are a few health benefits worth mentioning!
Pears: They are high in fiber and vitamin C, adding a fresh fruit touch to our dessert. Plus, the antioxidants found in pears can contribute to heart health, so there’s a little silver lining there!
Cinnamon: This warm spice is known for potentially lowering blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties. So, maybe enjoy that second slice with a hint of guilt lifted!
However, this cheesecake is high in calories, sugar, and fat, so moderation is key. Enjoying a small piece alongside fruit or pairing it with a cup of tea can balance things out nicely.
Ingredients
– **Graham cracker crust:** 1 ½ cups (crushed graham crackers)
– **Unsalted butter:** ½ cup (melted; I love Kerrygold)
– **Ripe pears:** 3 medium Bosc pears (peeled and sliced)
– **Cream cheese:** 16 oz. (softened)
– **Granulated sugar:** ½ cup
– **Brown sugar:** ¼ cup (packed)
– **Eggs:** 3 (room temperature)
– **Sour cream:** ½ cup (for that tangy flavor)
– **Cinnamon:** 1 tsp
– **Nutmeg:** ½ tsp (freshly grated if possible)
– **Cloves:** ¼ tsp (optional, for extra spice)
This recipe serves about 8-10 people, depending on how generous you are with your slices!
How to Make Spiced Pear Cheesecake?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). You want it nice and warm for our cheesecake!
2. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. It should resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until combined.
4. Add in the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Then mix in the sour cream and spices until everything is well incorporated.
5. Fold in the sliced pears gently; you want them evenly distributed but don’t overmix!
6. Pour the cheesecake batter onto the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools!
8. Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool gently for an hour inside—this helps prevent cracking.
9. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better!) before removing from the springform pan.
Serving Suggestions for Spiced Pear Cheesecake Bliss
– A dollop of whipped cream is always a crowd-pleaser! You could also try drizzling a little caramel sauce on top for that extra touch of sweetness.
– If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll garnish it with toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
– Want to make it a bit healthier? Pair a slice with a scoop of plain Greek yogurt for some added protein without sacrificing taste.
I just know you’re going to love this spiced pear cheesecake as much as I do! It’s perfect to serve at gatherings or to savor with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon. Make sure to save me a slice (or two)! Happy baking, friend!