Get ready to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe, a luscious dessert that perfectly blends the warm spices of cinnamon and pumpkin with creamy, dreamy cheesecake goodness. It’s comfort in every bite, with a buttery graham cracker crust, a delicate cinnamon sugar swirl woven through the velvety pumpkin filling, and a decadent cinnamon whipped cream topping that makes it feel just as special as the season itself. Whether you’re making this for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, this cheesecake is bound to become an all-time favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of various baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface, including a large white bowl filled with finely crushed graham crackers positioned at the top left, a medium clear glass bowl with bright orange smooth pumpkin puree to its right, small clear bowls containing pale yellow chunks of butter, white granulated sugar, light brown soft brown sugar, creamy white thick yogurt, and a dark brown mix of powdered cinnamon and nutmeg spaced evenly below. Two white eggs and two sticks of cream cheese partially wrapped in silver foil lay near the center. The colors are warm and earthy with creamy whites and rich browns making a visually balanced layout. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, coming together to create layers of flavor and texture that make this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe so irresistible. Each component—from the graham cracker crust to the swirls of cinnamon sugar and the rich pumpkin-spiced filling—plays a vital role in crafting a perfectly balanced dessert.

Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups/160g): Provide a buttery, crunchy base that holds the cheesecake together beautifully.
Light or dark brown sugar (2 tbsp for crust, plus more for filling and swirl): Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness essential for that warm autumn feel.
Unsalted butter (5 tbsp/70g, melted): Binds the crust ingredients and adds richness without overpowering.
Ground cinnamon (1 ¼ tsp plus ¼ tsp for swirl and topping): Delivers the iconic spicy warmth that defines this recipe.
All-purpose flour (1 tbsp/9g): Helps create the perfect cinnamon swirl texture.
Cream cheese (2 x 250g blocks, softened): The creamy star of the cheesecake, giving it that smooth, luscious texture.
Various sugars (½ cup light brown, ¼ cup granulated, 1 tbsp dark brown): Each sugar type adds a unique sweetness and texture nuance throughout the layers.
Large eggs (2, at room temperature): Provide structure and richness to the filling.
Full fat sour cream (¼ cup/60ml): Adds a slight tang and helps keep the cheesecake moist and tender.
Pumpkin pie spice (1 ½ tsp): Brings that unmistakable pumpkin-pie goodness into every forkful.
Pure pumpkin puree (¾ cup/180ml): The heart of the pumpkin flavor, creamy and natural.
Heavy whipping cream (⅔ cup/160ml): Whipped into a cinnamon-laced topping that crowns this decadent dessert.
Skim milk powder (1 tsp/6g): Enhances the whipped cream’s texture and richness.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepping an 8-inch springform pan with a light grease on the sides and parchment paper on the bottom. The crust is the foundation of this cheesecake, made by blending graham cracker crumbs with brown sugar and melted butter until perfectly combined. Press this mixture evenly across the pan’s base and up the sides, then bake until it sets into a golden, slightly crispy shell. This step ensures you get a sturdy yet tender crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Step 2: Lower the Oven and Mix the Cinnamon Swirl

Once the crust is golden, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F. Meanwhile, prepare that signature cinnamon swirl by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of flour. This simple blend will be your little secret to adding spots of warmth and sweetness that ripple through each slice of the pumpkin cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Up the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling

Now, the magic happens in the mixing bowl. Beat the softened cream cheese until silky smooth, then gradually add in brown sugar and granulated sugar to sweeten and enrich the mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before the next goes in. Fold in sour cream, pumpkin pie spice, and the creamy pumpkin puree, combining everything gently to avoid air bubbles that cause cracks but at the same time ensuring a silky, dense texture. This step strikes the perfect balance for that classic cheesecake creaminess infused with cozy pumpkin and spice.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers with Love

Pour just over half your pumpkin cheesecake batter onto the prebaked crust and smooth it out gently. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar swirl mixture evenly on top, then carefully dollop the remaining batter over the swirl layer. The trick is to spread it gently with an offset spatula, connecting the dollops carefully so the cinnamon swirl stays nestled within the filling, giving you those irresistible swirled slices that steal the show.

Step 5: Bake with a Water Bath for Perfection

Place your cheesecake on the center oven rack with a water bath below to keep the cheesecake moist and prevent cracking. Bake for 45 minutes, then turn the oven off and leave the cheesecake untouched inside for another 10 minutes. The filling should be set with a slight wobble in the center — the perfect level of doneness for that creamy, dreamy texture.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

After baking, run a knife around the edge and let your cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight. This resting time is crucial for the flavors to meld and for the cheesecake to firm up to that perfect sliceable consistency.

Step 7: Whip Up the Cinnamon Whipped Cream and Serve

Just before serving, whip heavy cream with brown sugar, milk powder, and cinnamon to soft peaks to create a fluffy and flavorful topping. This cinnamon whipped cream adds a luscious, airy contrast that elevates every bite of the Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe into a festival of textures and tastes.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

The image shows a slice of pumpkin cheesecake with three main layers on a piece of white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a crumbled, golden brown crust. The middle layer is a denser, mixed-texture pumpkin cheesecake with swirls of darker pumpkin spice throughout. The top layer is a smooth, lighter orange pumpkin cheesecake. The slice is topped with three thick swirls of white whipped cream sprinkled with a fine dusting of cinnamon. In the background, the rest of the pumpkin cheesecake is visible with more whipped cream star dollops along the edge. Additional cinnamon sticks and a glass of milk are softly blurred behind the cake. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cinnamon or a light sprinkle of crushed graham crackers can add an inviting, rustic touch. For a festive flair, try adding a few candied pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce to complement the warm spices and creamy pumpkin flavors.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake shines beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or mulled wine to echo the autumn spices. For a fresh contrast, serve alongside a crisp apple or pear salad dressed lightly with lemon and honey for a pop of brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant twist, pipe the cinnamon whipped cream in delicate rosettes around the edges and scatter a few toasted pumpkin seeds on top. Serving individual portions in small glass jars layered with crumbled crust and swirl can turn this cake into a charming dessert parfait, perfect for holiday gatherings or intimate dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and topped, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and keep refrigerated. It will maintain its delicious texture and flavor for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead treat for parties or weekday indulgences.

Freezing

You can freeze this cheesecake either whole or in slices. Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When stored properly, your cheesecake will last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing its creamy texture or the vibrant pumpkin and cinnamon flavors.

Reheating

For best results, thaw frozen cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator. Serve chilled or bring to room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. Because this cheesecake is rich and dense, reheating is typically not recommended; let it shine cold or slightly softened for the perfect experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree because canned pumpkin pie filling usually contains added sugars and spices, which can throw off the balance of flavors in the Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe.

Why is there a water bath required for baking the cheesecake?

The water bath gently regulates the heat around the cheesecake and adds moisture to the oven, which helps prevent cracks and ensures the cheesecake bakes evenly and stays creamy.

What can I substitute if I don’t have sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a tangy substitute for sour cream. It will provide similar moisture and acidity, helping to keep the filling tender and flavorful.

How do I avoid cracks on the cheesecake surface?

Mix the batter gently without over-beating, bake with a water bath, and avoid opening the oven door during baking and initial cooling to maintain stable temperatures. Also, run a knife around the cheesecake right after baking to loosen it from the pan edges, reducing crack formation.

Can I make mini cheesecakes using this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply adjust baking time down for smaller molds and keep an eye on the filling’s wobble to know when they’re done. Mini cheesecakes are adorable and perfect for sharing the joy of this Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe in bite-sized portions.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe is truly a celebration of fall’s best flavors wrapped in creamy, silky cheesecake magic. Once you taste that perfect blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and sweet creaminess, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a cherished favorite. Don’t wait for the holidays — start making unforgettable memories with every slice of this delightful dessert today!