Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups (180g) gingersnap cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp (25g) brown sugar, packed
- 16 oz (450g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (245g) canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large (100g) eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1.5 tsp (4g) ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp (1g) ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp (0.5g) ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
Instructions:
- Combine gingersnap crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Line a 9x9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom using the bottom of a measuring cup for a tight, even seal.
- Place the pan in the freezer for 10 minutes to lock the crust in place.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium-high until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is fully incorporated.
- Lower the speed and mix in the pumpkin puree, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until fully combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low just until combined; stop the moment the yellow streaks vanish to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Spread the batter evenly over the chilled crust.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50–60 minutes.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool and then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before slicing into 16 squares.