A luxurious and creamy baked cheesecake topped with tender caramelized pears. This elegant dessert combines the richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet depth of golden pears for a show-stopping finish.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:25 mins
Cook Time:60 mins
Total Time:6 hrs (including chilling)
Yield:10 slices 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
24 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for pears)
2 tbsp brown sugar (for pears)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and flour until just combined.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Remove from oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
To caramelize the pears, melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add pear slices, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until pears are tender and golden, about 6-8 minutes.
Arrange the caramelized pears on top of the chilled cheesecake just before serving.
Notes
Use ripe but firm pears for best texture.
Let cheesecake cool gradually to prevent cracking.
Can be made a day ahead and topped before serving.