Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.25 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 oz (450g) brick-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 1 cup (245g) pumpkin purée
  • 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp (2g) ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp (1g) ground ginger
  • 0.25 tsp (0.5g) ground cloves
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled

Instructions:

  1. Blot the pumpkin purée on paper towels for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture and concentrate the flavor.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan using the base of a measuring cup, ensuring edges are packed tight.
  4. Place the crust in the freezer for 10 minutes to flash-set.
  5. Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on medium-high until smooth and pale (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Fold in the blotted pumpkin purée, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
  7. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the pumpkin mixture using a spatula until uniform.
  8. Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for cleanest slices.
  10. Remove the springform rim carefully before serving.