The Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that marries the classic Southern charm of a pecan pie with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. It’s a perfect treat for celebrating the Kentucky Derby, or any special occasion that calls for something truly indulgent and memorable.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake:
- 16 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 teaspoons bourbon whiskey, divided
- 2 eggs
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 egg yolks
- ⅔ cup maple syrup, or dark corn syrup
- ½ cup warm cream
- 4 tablespoons cold butter
- 2 cups chopped roasted pecans
- Whole roasted pecans for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan, covering the bottom and extending halfway up the sides.
- Refrigerate to chill.
Make the Cheesecake:
- In a large bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, and milk with a hand mixer until fluffy.
- Incorporate sour cream, flour, 2 teaspoons bourbon, and eggs, mixing gently until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the chilled crust and bake for 1 hour, or until set and no longer jiggles.
Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, mix brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt over low heat.
- Whisk in egg yolks, maple syrup, and warm cream until smooth.
- Continue cooking on low heat until it thickens like pudding (5-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat, add cold butter and remaining bourbon, and whisk until smooth. Cool to room temperature.
- Fold in chopped roasted pecans and spread evenly over the baked cheesecake.
Finish and Serve:
- Garnish with whole pecans, if desired.
- Refrigerate until fully set.
- Slice, serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes and FAQs
- Bourbon Selection: The type of bourbon can slightly alter the flavor; choose a bourbon that you enjoy drinking.
- Cheesecake Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps in your cheesecake.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair this cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
This Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that are deeply rooted in Southern culinary tradition. Perfect for any festivity, it promises to be a showstopper at your next gathering. Enjoy the richness of pecan pie and the silky smoothness of cheesecake in every bite!
