Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 ripe pears, peeled and finely diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Directions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press the mixture into the bottom of the pan.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the sugars and mix well.
Beat in the eggs one at a time.
Stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sour cream until the mixture is creamy.
Gently fold in the diced pears.
Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
Bake for 55–65 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
To make the caramel, melt the butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the cream and stir until smooth.
Simmer the caramel for 2–3 minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in a pinch of salt.
Let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling it over the chilled cheesecake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance can I make this Spiced Pear Cheesecake?
This decadent cheesecake benefits greatly from chilling time. For the best texture and flavor integration, aim to bake the cheesecake and then chill it for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, before adding the caramel topping and serving.
Can I substitute the pears in this Spiced Pear Cheesecake recipe?
While the spiced pears are the star, you can substitute them with other firm, spiced fruits like apples or quince for a similar texture. Ensure your fruit filling is cooked down slightly before folding it into the cream cheese mixture to prevent excess moisture.
What is the best way to prevent my Spiced Pear Cheesecake from cracking during baking?
To minimize cracking after baking at 325°F (160°C), ensure your cream cheese and eggs are fully softened to room temperature for a smooth batter. After the 1 hour 15 minute bake time, let the cheesecake cool gradually in the turned-off oven with the door ajar before refrigerating.
