Can I make Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, this cheesecake is best when made a day in advance. Allowing it to chill overnight not only helps it set properly but also enhances the flavor and texture. You can prepare and refrigerate it up to 48 hours before serving.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic and placing them in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

Can I make this cheesecake without bourbon?

Yes! While bourbon adds a classic Derby Day touch and a warm depth of flavor, it is entirely optional. You can replace it with an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract or omit it altogether for a non-alcoholic version that still tastes amazing.

Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake – Best Southern Dessert

Name: Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: for a buttery, crunchy crust; 1/3 cup melted butter: binds the crust and adds richness; 24 oz cream cheese (3 packages), softened: base of the creamy filling; 1 cup granulated sugar: sweetens the cheesecake; 3 large eggs: structure for the cheesecake filling; 1 cup sour cream: adds tanginess and smooth texture; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: enhances flavor; 1 cup chopped pecans: provides crunch and nutty flavor; 1/2 cup brown sugar: adds caramel-like sweetness; 1/2 cup light corn syrup: gives the pecan pie layer its gooey texture; 2 large eggs: binds the pecan pie filling; 1/4 cup melted butter: adds richness to pecan layer; 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional): adds Southern flavor and depth; 1 cup whole pecan halves: decorative topping; 1/2 cup caramel sauce: drizzled on top for extra sweetness

Description

This Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake combines two Southern classics into one irresistible dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a gooey bourbon-infused pecan pie layer, it’s perfect for holidays, Derby Day, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups graham cracker crumbs: for a buttery, crunchy crust
1/3 cup melted butter: binds the crust and adds richness
24 oz cream cheese (3 packages), softened: base of the creamy filling
1 cup granulated sugar: sweetens the cheesecake
3 large eggs: structure for the cheesecake filling
1 cup sour cream: adds tanginess and smooth texture
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: enhances flavor
1 cup chopped pecans: provides crunch and nutty flavor
1/2 cup brown sugar: adds caramel-like sweetness
1/2 cup light corn syrup: gives the pecan pie layer its gooey texture
2 large eggs: binds the pecan pie filling
1/4 cup melted butter: adds richness to pecan layer
2 tablespoons bourbon (optional): adds Southern flavor and depth
1 cup whole pecan halves: decorative topping
1/2 cup caramel sauce: drizzled on top for extra sweetness

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Blend in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In another bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, melted butter, and bourbon (if using) until well combined.
Pour half the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Gently spoon the pecan pie mixture over the filling. Add the remaining cheesecake filling on top and smooth the surface.
Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool for 1 hour inside.
Once cooled, arrange pecan halves on top in a circular pattern. Drizzle with caramel sauce.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

For clean slices, use a hot knife and wipe between each cut.
To make it alcohol-free, omit bourbon and add an extra teaspoon of vanilla.
This dessert is best made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 510 kcal
Sugar: 35 g
Sodium: 260 mg
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 7 g
Cholesterol: 130 mg