01 -
In a food processor, place Nilla Wafers and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice and process until fine crumbs remain. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture for later.
02 -
Pour melted butter into the food processor with the crumbs and pulse to combine until evenly distributed.
03 -
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Cover and place in the freezer to set.
04 -
In a stand mixer, cream together cream cheese and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
05 -
Mix in pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice until smooth, about 2-3 minutes, scraping the sides as needed.
06 -
Gently fold in 3 cups of whipped topping until fully incorporated.
07 -
Transfer the cheesecake filling to the springform and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
08 -
Cover and chill the cheesecake overnight or for at least 6 hours.
09 -
When ready to serve, spread or pipe remaining whipped topping on top of the cheesecake, sprinkle with reserved crumbs and pumpkin pie spice if desired.
10 -
Remove the springform rim, cut, and serve. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.