- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
- (Optional) Swirl ½ cup caramel sauce into the batter for extra flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45–50 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Step 4: Add the Caramel Topping
- Once cooled, spread ½ cup caramel sauce over the cheesecake.
- Sprinkle with sea salt if using.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Slice and drizzle with extra caramel sauce.
- Garnish with whipped cream and chopped nuts if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
🍮 Best served chilled for a creamy texture.
🍮 Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
🍮 Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variants
- Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake – Add ½ cup melted chocolate to the filling.
- Salted Caramel Pecan Cheesecake – Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
- No-Bake Version – Skip baking and refrigerate the cheesecake overnight.
- Bourbon Caramel Cheesecake – Add 1 tablespoon bourbon to the caramel sauce.
- Caramel Apple Cheesecake – Top with sautéed cinnamon apples.
FAQ
1. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Bake at low temperature, don’t overmix, and let it cool gradually in the oven.
2. Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Try Oreo, shortbread, or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
3. What’s the best caramel sauce?
Homemade caramel or store-bought thick caramel topping works great.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake tastes even better the next day, so making it ahead is ideal.
5. Can I make mini cheesecakes?
Absolutely! Use a muffin tin and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Caramel Cheesecake Delight is rich, velvety, and bursting with caramel goodness. Whether for a special occasion or just a treat-yourself moment, this cheesecake is a must-try dessert!
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