Creating the Kentucky Derby Pecan Pie Cheesecake can be accomplished by following these straightforward steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Crust:
– In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
– Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
– Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
– Mix in the vanilla extract, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
– Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, and bourbon (if using) until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

4. Bake the Cheesecake:
– Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
– Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.

5. Prepare the Pecan Topping:
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
– Stir in the pecan halves.

6. Add the Topping:
– After the cheesecake has cooled for one hour, pour the pecan mixture over the top.
– Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the topping is set.

7. Chill: Once done, remove the cheesecake from the oven. Let it cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours before serving.