Maple-Pecan Cheesecake

Submitted by Pepina Rae

"This is simply a FABULOUS cheesecake. I know you'll love it."

 

• Ready In: 1hr 15mins
• Ingredients: 11
• Serves: 8

ingredients

• 2⁄3 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon margarine, melted
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 16 ounces neufchatel cheese, softened
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1⁄4 cups maple syrup
• 3 large egg whites, beaten
• 1⁄4 cup pecans, toasted, chopped

directions

1. Combine first 4 ingredients in bowl, toss with fork. Press crumb mix into bottom of 8" spring form pan that has been sprayed.
2. Bake at 400ºF for 8 minutes. Let cool on wire rack.
3. Combine cheeses, cornstarch and salt and beat on high until smooth.
4. Gradually add syrup, then fold in beaten egg whites until blended.
5. Turn oven to 525ºF.
6. Pour in half mix and sprinkle with pecans.
7. Top with remaining mix and bake for 7 minutes.
8. Reduce temperature to 200ºF and bake 45 minutes or until almost set.
9. Remove and cool to room temperature. Cover and chill at least 8 hours.