Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Base:

• Pumpkin – 880g (fresh or canned puree)
• Cream cheese – 200g, softened
• Milk – 500g
• Sugar – 80g (adjust to taste)
• Agar-agar (strength 900) – 10g
• Lemon or Orange Zest – zest of one lemon or orange

For the Chocolate Swirl:

• Chocolate – 100g (semi-sweet or dark, as preferred)
• Milk – 2 tbsp (to blend smoothly with chocolate)

Optional, but Essential Ingredients:

• Love and Good Mood – As much as you can add (this makes it taste even better!)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pumpkin Puree

1. If using fresh pumpkin, peel and chop it into cubes. Place the pumpkin pieces in a steamer or boil until they’re soft. Drain any excess water.
2. Blend the cooked pumpkin in a food processor until you achieve a smooth, lump-free puree. You should have around 880g of pumpkin puree for this recipe.
3. Set the puree aside.

Step 2: Make the Agar Mixture

1. In a saucepan, add the milk and agar-agar powder. Stir until the agar is fully dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent any lumps and to ensure the agar dissolves evenly. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
3. Once it reaches a rolling boil, set the saucepan aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Combine Pumpkin, Cream Cheese, and Sweetness

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and pumpkin puree. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it’s creamy and smooth.
2. Grate in the zest of one lemon or orange to add a hint of citrus that will beautifully balance the richness of the cheesecake.
3. Gradually add the milk-agar mixture into the pumpkin-cream cheese blend, mixing well after each addition. This will ensure that the agar is evenly distributed, giving the dessert its signature firmness and smooth texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Swirl

1. Melt the chocolate in a microwave or double boiler until it’s smooth. Add in the 2 tablespoons of milk to create a slightly thinner consistency for swirling.
2. Carefully drizzle the melted chocolate over the cheesecake mixture. Using a toothpick or skewer, swirl the chocolate into the mixture to create a marbled effect. The chocolate should blend slightly but not fully mix, giving a beautiful marbled appearance.

Step 5: Set and Chill

1. Pour the final mixture into a springform pan or serving dish, spreading it evenly. Gently tap the pan on a surface to remove any air bubbles.
2. Cover the cheesecake and place it in the refrigerator to set for at least 4–6 hours or overnight. This allows the agar to fully set, ensuring a perfect sliceable texture.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once set, carefully slice the cheesecake with a clean knife. You can serve it as-is or garnish with a sprinkle of additional citrus zest for added flair.
2. Pair each slice with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or whipped cream if desired.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Setting Time: 4–6 hours
• Total Time: Approx. 5 hours

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 15g

Note: Values are estimates and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 8–10 servings.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Pumpkin cheesecake with a chocolate swirl is a dessert that resonates across generations. The creamy texture of the cheesecake, combined with the mellow earthiness of pumpkin and a hint of chocolate, feels decadent and heartwarming. This recipe effortlessly combines tradition with a modern twist, making it perfect for both young and older guests. Pumpkin desserts have always held a special place in seasonal recipes, evoking feelings of warmth, family gatherings, and festivities. The touch of chocolate elevates it from a classic to a gourmet treat, making it unforgettable yet accessible. This dessert also stands out because of its adaptability—whether it’s made for Thanksgiving, a family reunion, or a cozy winter night, it always feels like a perfect fit.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute agar-agar with gelatin? Yes, gelatin can be used if agar is unavailable, but remember to adjust the setting time and process as gelatin works differently. Follow package instructions.
2. Can I use canned pumpkin puree? Absolutely. Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient substitute that works just as well and saves time.
3. Is there a substitute for cream cheese? Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can be used, but it will slightly alter the texture and taste. Make sure to drain any excess liquid if using yogurt.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cheesecake

• Choosing the Right Chocolate: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate complements the pumpkin’s earthy sweetness better than milk chocolate, so opt for these if you can.
• Achieving the Perfect Swirl: Use a toothpick to lightly blend the chocolate into the cheesecake. Don’t overdo it, or you’ll lose the marble effect.
• Temperature Matters: Allow the agar mixture to cool slightly before adding to the cream cheese and pumpkin blend, so it doesn’t curdle the mixture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: This cheesecake should be stored in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, where it will keep for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Cheesecake with Chocolate Swirl is the epitome of a seasonal dessert that combines elegance with simplicity. The creamy pumpkin base, enlivened with zesty citrus and punctuated by the smooth chocolate swirl, creates a flavor profile that is as layered as it is delightful. This dessert not only captures the essence of fall but also celebrates the joy of home baking—a sweet reminder of simpler times, family gatherings, and comforting flavors.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice looking to try something special, this recipe is both manageable and rewarding. Its unique blend of flavors and textures, along with its beautiful presentation, is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy a slice.