As the leaves turn crisp and the smell of cinnamon fills the air, there’s nothing I crave more than a slice of Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake. This decadent dessert is a delightful nod to the flavors of fall, merging creamy spiced pumpkin with a caramelized brown sugar streusel that’s almost too good to resist. Imagine the unique crunch of a Biscoff cookie crust—sweet, spicy, and comforting, serving as the perfect foundation for this heavenly creation.

I discovered this recipe during one of those cozy afternoons when I decided to embrace the seasonal bounty in my kitchen. Each bite promises a symphony of textures and flavors, from the silky filling to the crunchy topping, making it not just a dessert but a celebration of the season. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging on your own, this pumpkin streusel cheesecake is sure to become a beloved tradition. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake irresistible?

Decadent Layers: The rich, creamy pumpkin filling layered with crunchy streusel creates a dessert experience that’s simply unforgettable.
Unique Crust: The Biscoff cookie crust adds a spicy sweetness, giving you a delightful twist on classic cheesecake.
Fall Flavor Explosion: Infused with warm spices, each bite evokes the comforting essence of autumn gatherings.
Easy to Make: Simple steps mean you don’t need to be a pro to impress your guests. Whether you’re celebrating or just treating yourself, this treat is a must-try!

Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up something amazing with these must-have ingredients!

For the Streusel

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture for the streusel; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramel flavor; light brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the streusel; can be replaced with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, autumnal flavors; can be substituted with a homemade mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.

For the Crust

Biscoff Cookies – Forms a unique, spicy crust; substitute with graham cracker crumbs for a more traditional option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust mixture; can be replaced with granulated stevia for a lower-calorie option.
Unsalted Butter – Ensures the crust holds together nicely; melted butter is the best choice for binding.

For the Cheesecake Filling

Cornstarch – Enhances the texture and aids in setting; can omit or use arrowroot powder as an alternative.
Canned Pumpkin Purée – The main flavor base that brings the pumpkin goodness; opt for Libby’s for the best results.
Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake mixture; adjust according to taste.
Eggs – Vital for achieving the right structure and richness; no substitutes recommended.
Heavy Cream – For the whipped cream topping, providing a lovely finish; swap with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free topping.

Get ready to impress with this Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake—each ingredient plays a delicious role in crafting this unforgettable dessert!

How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake

Prepare the Pan: Wrap the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with aluminum foil. This will create a water bath to ensure even baking and a creamy texture.
Make the Streusel: In a bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, flour, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
Prepare the Crust: Pulse Biscoff cookies into fine crumbs, then mix them with melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes and allow to cool.
Mix Cheesecake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Add in the pumpkin purée, sour cream, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla; mix until fully combined. Carefully incorporate the eggs, one at a time, until just blended to avoid overmixing.
Assemble and Bake: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust, then sprinkle with spiced brown sugar. Gently pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the chilled streusel mixture. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan, fill it with boiling water, and bake at 350°F for 1.5 hours. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for an additional hour.
Chill Cheesecake: Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 8 hours or overnight for optimal firmness and flavor.
Prepare Whipped Cream: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Pipe the whipped cream around the cheesecake and sprinkle extra Biscoff crumbs on top for an added treat.

Optional: Serve with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an extra layer of decadence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crust and streusel up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness. The cheesecake filling can also be mixed a day ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble everything and follow the baking instructions as usual. To ensure the cheesecake remains creamy and delicious, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight before serving. With these make-ahead steps, serving a stunning dessert becomes effortless, saving you precious time!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake?

Imagine a cozy gathering where the sweet aroma of fall lingers, and your pumpkin streusel cheesecake is the star of the dessert table.

Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, spiced drink perfectly complements the cheesecake’s pumpkin flavors, adding an aromatic twist to your dessert experience.
Candied Pecans: These crunchy little bites offer a sweet and nutty contrast that enhances the creamy texture of the cheesecake, making every slice even more delightful.
Apple Cider: A classic fall beverage, this drink’s fruity notes pair beautifully with the spiced cheesecake, making your taste buds dance with joy.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a lovely contrast to the dense cheesecake while enhancing its richness in every bite.
Maple Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping takes the cheesecakes’ flavors to a new level, marrying perfectly with pumpkin and spices.
Ginger Snap Cookies: The spiciness of these cookies echoes the flavors in your cheesecake crust, creating a harmonious and nostalgic treat.
Hot Coffee: A strong cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the cheesecake, allowing for a heartwarming combination that’s perfect for an afternoon chat or dessert after dinner.
Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your cheesecake adds an indulgent layer of flavor; it’s decadent and irresistible for caramel lovers.

Let the experience of enjoying your pumpkin streusel cheesecake be even more memorable by pairing it with these delightful options!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake

Fridge: Store your pumpkin streusel cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you need to freeze it, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight for best results. This slow thaw helps preserve the creaminess of the cheesecake.

Reheating: If desired, serve slices at room temperature or give them a quick 10-second zap in the microwave to warm slightly, enhancing the flavors of this delightful pumpkin streusel cheesecake.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure to soften your cream cheese fully to avoid lumps in your pumpkin streusel cheesecake batter.
Don’t Overmix: When adding eggs, mix until just combined to preserve the cake’s texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cheesecake.
Water Bath Essential: Always use a water bath when baking your cheesecake to ensure a creamy, smooth texture without cracks.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing. This will help you achieve clean, beautiful slices for serving.
Chill Time Matters: Patience is key! Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 8 hours or overnight, allowing flavors to deepen and the texture to set perfectly.

Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize this delightful cheesecake to suit your taste!

Chocolate Delight: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the cheesecake batter to introduce a rich chocolate flavor, pairing perfectly with pumpkin.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce into the filling before baking for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Nutty Crust: Swap out the Biscoff crust with finely chopped pecans mixed with a bit of melted butter for a crunchy, nutty base.
Maple Twist: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup for a warm, cozy sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Spiked Flavor: Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon or rum into the filling for an adult version that adds depth and warmth.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in a cup of chopped apples or pears into the batter for a fruity twist that enhances the fall flavor profile.
Tropical Escape: Mix in coconut flakes to the streusel topping for a hint of tropical sweetness that elevates your cheesecake.
Vegan Option: Replace cream cheese with a cashew-based cream and use a combination of flaxseed meal and water in place of eggs for a vegan-friendly version.

Remember, these variations are just starting points—let your taste buds guide you! Each unique twist will bring a new level of joy to your lovely pumpkin streusel cheesecake.

Pumpkin Streusel Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin purée should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using Libby’s canned pumpkin purée; it has the perfect consistency for this cheesecake. Avoid waterlogged purées, as they can affect the texture and richness of your cheesecake.

How should I store leftover cheesecake?
Very simple! Store your pumpkin streusel cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps retain its flavor and moisture, so you can enjoy each slice just as delicious as the first.

Can I freeze pumpkin streusel cheesecake?
Yes! To freeze, tightly wrap the cheesecake in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture and flavor.

What can I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking?
No worries! Cheesecake cracks can happen, especially if it’s overbaked or if the batter is mixed too vigorously. To prevent this, be sure to bake it in a water bath and avoid overmixing after adding the eggs. If a crack does form, you can disguise it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce—it’s still delicious!

Can I make any substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version of the cheesecake, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. You can also use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the whipped topping. Just remember, some substitutes might alter the flavor or texture slightly, but it’s all about what works for you!

Is this cheesecake safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s best to keep this pumpkin streusel cheesecake away from pets, as ingredients like chocolate and certain spices can be harmful to them. For those with allergies, this recipe contains dairy and gluten, so consider using alternatives such as gluten-free flour and dairy-free products to ensure a safe and tasty treat for everyone.