In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment (or a large bowl using a handmixer), add the cream cheese and sugars. Mix on low speed until smooth and combined. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl so that everything is incorporated and there are no cream cheese chunks.
Add in the vanilla, flour, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and mix on low speed until smooth and combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add in the sour cream and mix again. Set aside for a moment.
Next, make the water bath. Heat 4 cups of water in a medium pot over high heat. (alternatively, I use a tea kettle). Place a large roasting pan in the bottom rack of your preheated oven. When the water is finally boiling, pour the water into the roasting pan. DO NOT POUR THE WATER IN AND THEN PUT THE PAN IN THE OVEN, THAT IS VERY DANGEROUS! This is not a traditional water bath, as most water baths require you to place the cheesecake in the center of the roasting pan and pour the water around it. I find this way to be easier.
In the meantime, return to making the cheesecake while the water comes to a boil. Mix in the eggs, one at a time on a low speed. Scrape down the sides again and then add in the can of pumpkin, mix until fully combined. Pour the cheesecake batter into the crust and smooth out the top.
Place the 1/4 cup of cookie butter in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 20 second intervals until fully melted and smooth. Dollop small circles across the top of the cheesecake batter. Then drag a knife with a sharp edge through these circles to create a design.
Bake at 350F for at least 1 hour and 5 minutes. It may take up to 1 hour and 15 minutes in your oven. Look for the visual cues to check for done-ness. The cheesecake should be puffed up with a slightly jiggly center. At that point, turn the oven OFF and instead of removing the cheesecake, crack the oven door slightly and let the cheesecake cool in there for an hour. Next, remove the cheesecake and let it fully come to room temperature before placing it in fridge to set for at least 4 hours.
Once the cheesecake has set in the refrigerator, place it on counter and prepare to decorate!