National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day

Delighted person enjoying a slice of pumpkin cheesecake, wearing a cozy sweater, autumn foliage background.. — National pumpkin cheesecake day illustration

When it comes to National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day, we're all about digging in and sinking our teeth into a piece of creamy, pumpkin-y, possibly calorie-ridden (but we're not counting) goodness. It's time to wave your cheesecake flag high and clear your schedules for the most delicious day, celebrated on October 21st every year.

When is Pumpkin Cheesecake Day?

It's national pumpkin cheesecake day on the 21st October.

A Brief History of National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day

The origins of this day are as mysterious as the perfect ratio of pumpkin to cheesecake. But we can tell you that our online mentions tracking tool has picked up more mentions on October 21st, with 2015 being the biggest year for this day's online hype.

The traditional cheesecake reaches back to Ancient Greece, and has evolved over millennia into the cream cheese delight we know today. Now, we’re not saying the Greeks ate pumpkin cheesecake at their Olympic games, but they were truly onto something.

Celebrating National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day

Like most food-based 'holidays', celebrated primarily in the United States, National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day is a call to indulge in this fusion of traditional cheesecake and autumnal pumpkin flavors. Whether you are a master baker or can barely operate an oven, this day is the perfect excuse to try your hand at a homemade pumpkin cheesecake or simply pick one up from your local bakery.

Or why not organize a baking contest among friends or co-workers? You could even stir the spirit of giving by selling slices for a good cause.

Word to the Wise,

No-one's making you choose between a traditional cheesecake and a pumpkin one on National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day. Why not have both? After all, it only comes once a year!

History behind the term 'Pumpkin Cheesecake'

1621

The Pilgrims' Harvest Feast

The history of pumpkin cheesecake can be traced back to the early 17th century when the Pilgrims celebrated their first successful harvest in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1621. During this time, the Pilgrims would have likely made simple pumpkin dishes, such as puddings or pies, using the native American pumpkin. However, the concept of cheesecake had not yet made its way to the New World.

1769

The Birth of American Cheesecake

It wasn't until the late 18th century that cheesecake began to gain popularity in America. The first American cookbook with a recipe for cheesecake was published in 1769 by Elizabeth Raffald, a British author and cook. This recipe laid the foundation for the development of various cheesecake variations, including the pumpkin cheesecake we know today.

1950s

The Rise of the Pumpkin Spice Craze

Fast forward to the 1950s, when the pumpkin spice craze started to take off in the United States. The combination of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves became a popular flavor profile associated with fall and holiday desserts. Pumpkin pie, being a classic Thanksgiving treat, served as inspiration for creative bakers to add a twist to the traditional cheesecake recipe by incorporating pumpkin and the beloved pumpkin spice blend.

1970s

The Emergence of Pumpkin Cheesecake

In the 1970s, pumpkin cheesecake slowly gained recognition as a delectable autumn dessert. As the popularity of cheesecake grew, particularly in New York City, bakers started experimenting with different flavors and textures. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin was a match made in dessert heaven. The dessert quickly gained a loyal following and became a staple during the Thanksgiving and holiday season.

Present Day

Pumpkin Cheesecake's Modern Popularity

Today, pumpkin cheesecake has become a deliciously indulgent treat enjoyed by many during the fall season. It's a wonderful combination of velvety cheesecake filling infused with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with whipped cream or caramel sauce, pumpkin cheesecake has solidified its place as a beloved dessert, often gracing holiday tables and earning a spot on bakery menus across the country.