Description
Sweet caramel candy cheesecake delivers rich, indulgent layers of creamy perfection. Silky smooth textures and deep caramel notes promise an irresistible dessert experience that lingers long after the last delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 packages (24 ounces / 675 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (200 grams) graham cracker crumbs
Dairy and Cream Ingredients:
- ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) sour cream
- ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel and Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup (150 grams) caramel candies, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) caramel sauce
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (optional)
- ¼ cup (25 grams) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Craft a sturdy foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar, pressing the mixture evenly into a springform pan. Briefly toast the crust in the oven until golden, then allow it to cool completely.
- In a spacious mixing vessel, whip cream cheese until velvety smooth, gradually incorporating sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Gently fold chopped caramel candies throughout the luscious mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Carefully transfer the creamy filling onto the prepared crust, using a spatula to create a perfectly level surface. Encase the pan’s exterior with aluminum foil to prevent moisture infiltration.
- Create a protective water bath by placing the wrapped pan into a larger baking dish filled with steaming water. Slide the assembly into a preheated oven, allowing the cheesecake to bake gently until the edges firm up while maintaining a delicate jiggle in the center.
- After baking, switch off the oven and crack the door open, permitting the cheesecake to rest and cool gradually. This technique prevents unsightly surface cracks and ensures a silky texture.
- Once completely cooled, liberate the cheesecake from its pan by running a thin knife along the edges. Refrigerate for several hours, allowing the dessert to set and develop deep, rich flavors.
- Before serving, cascade a generous drizzle of caramel sauce across the surface. Optional embellishments include a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a handful of chopped nuts for textural contrast.
- Slice with a warm knife and present the decadent creation, storing any remaining portions in the refrigerator to maintain optimal taste and consistency.
Notes
- Achieve a perfectly smooth cheesecake by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, preventing lumps and creating a silky texture.
- Prevent cracking by using a water bath and avoiding overmixing the batter, which can incorporate too much air and cause surface splits during baking.
- Customize the recipe by swapping caramel candies with chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or other mix-ins to create unique flavor variations that suit different tastes.
- Make the cheesecake gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers or replacing the crust with ground nuts like almonds or pecans for a delicious alternative.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 483
- Sugar: 40 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg