Decadent Carrot Cake Cheesecake with Smooth and Creamy
Indulge in the Decadent Carrot Cake Cheesecake with Smooth and Creamy layers, blending the warm, spiced flavors of classic carrot cake with a rich, velvety cheesecake texture. This dessert offers perfect flavor harmony, a luscious mouth-melting texture, and an impressive appearance, all while being simple to prepare. Ideal for celebrations or any time you crave a special sweet treat.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free crust ingredients)
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits
- 5 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Carrot Cake Layer
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Cheesecake Layer
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare the Crust: Start by crushing graham crackers or digestive biscuits finely. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and sugar, then press firmly into the base of a springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the cheesecake layers.
- Make the Carrot Cake Layer: In a medium bowl, mix grated carrots with sugar, eggs, and the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir in chopped nuts if using. This layer creates a spiced, rich foundation lighter than traditional carrot cake to pair with the creamy cheesecake layer.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing gently until creamy and free of lumps. This silky layer balances the sweetness and spices of the carrot cake layer beautifully.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the carrot cake mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Carefully pour or spoon the cheesecake layer on top, smoothing to a neat finish. Visually and aromatically, the two layers complement each other perfectly.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the assembled cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Cool gradually, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to achieve the signature smooth and creamy texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother blending and no lumps.
- Blend just until combined to avoid excess air that can cause cracks.
- For extra creamy results, bake the cheesecake in a water bath.
- Use freshly ground spices for stronger, more vibrant flavors.
- Refrigerate the finished cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for firm slicing and enhanced flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: carrot cake cheesecake, carrot cake, cheesecake, layered dessert, spiced dessert, creamy cheesecake, carrot cake with cream cheese