Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce Recipe
If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that blends creamy richness with warm autumn flavors, the Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce Recipe is a must-make. This decadent cheesecake boasts a spicy gingersnap crust, a velvety pumpkin-infused filling, and a luscious homemade caramel sauce that ties everything together perfectly. It’s the kind of dish that will have your friends and family asking for seconds and wondering how you managed to make something so elegant with such simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, combining classic cheesecake elements with seasonal pumpkin notes and a beautifully spiced crust to create a vibrant, indulgent dessert. Let’s walk through what you’ll be gathering for this unforgettable treat.
- Gingersnap crumbs (1½ cups): These add warmth and a crisp texture to the crust, balancing the creamy filling.
- Sugar (5 Tbsp for crust and 1¼ cups for cheesecake): Vital for sweetness, it also helps with texture and browning during baking.
- Melted butter (⅓ cup for crust and ¼ cup softened for cheesecake): Brings richness and helps bind the crust and filling beautifully.
- Corn starch (5 tsp): Acts as a stabilizer in the filling to keep it creamy without cracks.
- Cream cheese (4 packages of 8 oz each, room temperature): The star of the cheesecake, providing that smooth, tangy base.
- Large eggs (6): They add structure and richness, binding the filling perfectly.
- Heavy cream (½ cup for filling, 1 cup for caramel sauce): Cream adds lusciousness to both the cheesecake and the caramel sauce.
- Vanilla (1½ tsp): Elevates all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
- Pumpkin puree (1 cup): Infuses the cheesecake with that comforting pumpkin flavor and a moist texture.
- Pumpkin spice (1 tsp): A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that perfectly complements the pumpkin.
- Sugar (½ cup for caramel sauce): Essential for that deep, rich caramel flavor.
- Butter (¼ cup for caramel sauce): Adds silkiness and depth to the caramel.
How to Make Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by combining gingersnap crumbs, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and the melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly against the sides and bottom of a 10-inch springform pan. Using a measuring cup to press down evenly works incredibly well, ensuring a sturdy and flavorful base that will hold the filling without crumbling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
Set your oven to preheat at 325ºF. In your stand mixer bowl, blend the 1¼ cups sugar, corn starch, and softened butter until creamy. Slowly add the cream cheese, beating until the mixture is smooth and soft. Don’t forget to scrape the bowl frequently to ensure everything is evenly combined. Next, add eggs one at a time on the slowest speed to keep the batter airy but stable. After this, gently fold in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice until fully incorporated into the luscious mix.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the thick batter into your prepared crust. There might be a little leftover batter — keep it in the fridge for a quick snack or mini cheesecakes later! Place the springform pan in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Then rotate the pan and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheesecake rises and the surface feels firm to the touch. After baking, let it cool completely before refrigerating to set it properly for several hours or overnight.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter and sugar together, letting the mixture caramelize to a medium amber color. Be careful during this stage as the sugar mixture can splatter once the cream is added. Whisk in the heavy cream carefully and continue stirring until smooth. Let the caramel cool to room temperature before drizzling generously over the chilled cheesecake.
How to Serve Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin spice can add extra warmth on top, or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans for delightful crunch. Fresh whipped cream is always a welcome companion, making each bite even more luxurious. If you want to up the wow factor at your next gathering, a few edible gold leaf flakes can add dazzling elegance.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides like a mixed berry salad to balance the richness. Warm spiced cider or a robust coffee complement the deep pumpkin and caramel flavors, completing a cozy fall-inspired dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices with mini pumpkin puree dollops on the side and caramel sauce adorning the plate like a painter’s brushstroke. You can also turn leftovers into cheesecake parfaits layered with crushed gingersnap cookies, whipped cream, and a drizzle of caramel for an easy yet impressive treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps preserve its creamy texture and fresh pumpkin flavor without drying out.
Freezing
The Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce Recipe freezes beautifully if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
Since this is a creamy cheesecake, it’s best served chilled. If you prefer it slightly less cold, let slices sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes after removing from the fridge—this brings out the full depth of flavors without losing that signature texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust instead of gingersnaps?
Absolutely! While gingersnaps add a spicy note perfect for pumpkin, you can substitute with graham crackers or digestive biscuits for a milder crust. Just keep the same quantity and ensure they’re finely crushed.
Is it necessary to use pumpkin spice, or can I use other spices?
Pumpkin spice is traditional and creates that classic autumn flavor profile, but you can customize with cinnamon alone or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to your taste. Just be mindful of intensity so the spices complement rather than overpower the pumpkin.
My cheesecake cracked on top—how can I prevent that?
Cheesecake cracking is common. To minimize it, bake at a lower temperature (325ºF is ideal), avoid overmixing, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually. Running a thin knife around the edge of the pan right after baking also prevents sticking, which helps keep the top smooth.
Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The caramel sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator and gently warm it over the stove or in the microwave before drizzling over the cheesecake.
What’s the best way to slice this cheesecake cleanly?
Dipping a sharp knife in hot water and wiping it dry before each slice helps achieve clean, perfect cuts without dragging or crumbling the edges.
Final Thoughts
The Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce Recipe is a treasure that brings the festive vibes of fall right to your table with luxurious texture and irresistible flavors. Whether for holiday celebrations or whenever you want to indulge in something truly special, this cheesecake promises smile-worthy moments in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert tradition!
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Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Ritz Carlton Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce is a creamy, spiced pumpkin dessert with a crisp gingersnap crust and a luscious homemade caramel sauce. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, it offers a festive treat ideal for fall gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups gingersnap crumbs
- 5 Tbsp sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter
Cheesecake
- 1¼ cups sugar
- 5 tsp corn starch
- 4 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp pumpkin spice
Caramel Sauce
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the gingersnap crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well incorporated. Press this mixture evenly against the sides and bottom of a 10-inch springform pan using a measuring cup or your hands to form a firm crust.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 325ºF (163ºC) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the cheesecake.
- Make the cheesecake batter: In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend the sugar, cornstarch, and softened butter until smooth. Add the cream cheese and beat until soft and creamy, scraping down the bowl as needed. On the first speed setting, add the eggs slowly one at a time, continuing to scrape the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly. Mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice until combined.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan. You may have some leftover batter. Bake for 45 minutes, then rotate the pan and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the cheesecake has risen and feels firm on the top when gently touched.
- Cool and refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature before refrigerating it to set completely. Chill until ready to serve.
- Prepare the caramel sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt and caramelize the butter and sugar together, stirring occasionally until the mixture reaches a medium amber color. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream—the sauce may splatter, so take care. Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling generously over slices of the cheesecake.
Notes
- Room temperature cream cheese is essential for a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Use a water bath during baking to prevent cracks if desired, although not required for this recipe.
- The crust can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.
- For a stronger pumpkin flavor, increase pumpkin spice slightly to 1½ teaspoons.
- Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
