Dessert

Easy Southern Pecan Praline Cheesecake Recipe

ByLily Monroe December 12, 2025December 12, 2025

Introduction

Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of this Easy Southern Pecan Praline Cheesecake. Combining a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and a decadent pecan praline topping, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion.

A slice of three-layered pie on a white plate with red and green holly leaf patterns sits in the front. The bottom layer is a light brown crust, the middle layer is a thick creamy pale yellow filling, and the top layer is a darker brown crumbly topping with nuts. A dollop of white whipped cream with a small dark cherry is on top of the slice. Behind it, the rest of the pie sits on a white cake stand with decorative edges on a white marbled surface. A green glass decoration with red spots is in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
¼ cup packed brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon butter, melted
¼ cup dark corn syrup
1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: For the crust, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, compacting it tightly with a flat-bottomed glass or your fingers.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined.
Step 4: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 5: While the cheesecake bakes, prepare the praline topping. In a bowl, blend the brown sugar and melted butter. Add eggs and dark corn syrup, mixing until fully combined, then stir in chopped pecans.
Step 6: After the initial 30 minutes of baking, remove the cheesecake from the oven and carefully spread the pecan praline topping evenly over the surface.
Step 7: Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 40 minutes, or until the topping is set and golden.
Step 8: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the springform pan on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Optionally, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips & Variations

Use finely crushed graham cracker crumbs for a firmer crust that holds together well.
To avoid cracks in the cheesecake, mix the batter gently and avoid overbeating.
For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the praline topping.
Substitute dark corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness variation.

Storage

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it in the springform pan or transfer to an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a round three-layer dessert on a white plate with a holly leaf pattern around the edge. The bottom layer is a golden brown crust, firm and slightly crumbly. The middle layer is creamy and light yellow, smooth and thick, almost like cheesecake. The top layer is a darker brown with a textured surface covered in pecans, looking crunchy and caramelized. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there is a small green Christmas tree decoration with red ornaments. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a digestive biscuit crust or even a cookie crust of your choice, adjusting the butter quantity as needed to bind it.

What is the best way to soften cream cheese?

Leaving cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing is the easiest method. You can also soften it gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.