This decadent dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the caramelized crunch of pecan pie, perfect for any festive occasion or Kentucky Derby celebration. The touch of bourbon adds Southern flair, making this treat unforgettable!
Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake
This decadent dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the caramelized crunch of pecan pie, perfect for any festive occasion or Kentucky Derby celebration. The touch of bourbon adds Southern flair, making this treat unforgettable!
Ingredients
- 2 cupsgraham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cupmelted butter
- 16 ozcream cheese, at room temperature
- 3/4 cupgranulated sugar
- 1/4 cupmilk
- 1/2 cupsour cream
- 2 tablespoonsall-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoonsbourbon whiskey
- 2large eggs
- 1 cupdark brown sugar
- 1/4 cupcornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoonsalt
- 4largeegg yolks
- 2/3 cupmaple syrup or dark corn syrup
- 1/2 cupwarm cream
- 4 tablespoonscold butter
- 2 cupschopped roasted pecans
- Whole pecans, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to325°F(170°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
- 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.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and milk until smooth and fluffy.
- Add sour cream, flour, bourbon (if using), and eggs, mixing gently until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Bake for about60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Let cool on a wire rack.
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk in egg yolks, maple syrup, and warm cream over low heat.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat, add cold butter, and whisk until smooth. Fold in chopped pecans.
- Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake. Garnish with whole pecans, if desired.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least4 hours(or overnight) until fully set.
- Slice and serve chilled, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or caramel drizzle.
Notes
Bourbon Flavor: Use a bourbon you enjoy drinking for the best flavor in the filling.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
