Caramel Cheesecake is a creamy, rich dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and a glossy layer of caramel sauce. It’s indulgent, elegant, and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesecake offers a perfect balance between the tanginess of cream cheese and the sweetness of caramel. Its smooth texture and beautiful presentation make it a show-stopping dessert for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
- All-purpose flour
For the Caramel Topping:
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter
- Heavy cream
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: caramel candies for garnish or whipped cream
Directions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter.
- Press into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar, then eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and flour until combined.
- Pour over cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan in a water bath.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let it sit for 1 hour.
- Cool and Chill:
- Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Make the Caramel Sauce:
- Heat sugar in a saucepan until it melts into an amber liquid.
- Stir in butter and then slowly add cream and a pinch of salt. Simmer until thickened.
- Cool slightly before pouring over the chilled cheesecake.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with whipped cream or caramel pieces if desired, then slice and serve.
Servings and Timing
Serves 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 1 hour
Chill time: 4+ hours
Total time: 6 hours (including cooling and chilling)
Variations
- Use a chocolate or cookie crust instead of graham crackers.
- Add a touch of bourbon or espresso to the caramel for depth.
- Swirl caramel into the filling before baking for a marbled effect.
- Use store-bought caramel sauce to save time.
Storage/Reheating
- Store cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
- Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Do not reheat; serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, it works well for convenience and still tastes great.
Why do I need a water bath?
It ensures even baking and prevents the cheesecake from cracking.
Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Absolutely. It’s best made the day before to allow time to chill.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing and do not open the oven door while baking. Cooling slowly also helps.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat is recommended for best texture, but low-fat will work with slightly less richness.
How long does caramel cheesecake last?
It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I use a different crust?
Yes, try Oreo, Biscoff, or even shortbread crusts.
What size pan should I use?
A 9-inch springform pan is standard for cheesecakes.
Can I make this without eggs?
Yes, but it will require a different recipe with egg substitutes.
What toppings go well with caramel cheesecake?
Sea salt, whipped cream, nuts, or chocolate drizzle complement it perfectly.
Conclusion
Caramel Cheesecake is an impressive and delectable dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Its creamy filling, buttery crust, and luscious caramel topping make every bite indulgent and unforgettable.
Print
This caramel cheesecake features a creamy vanilla filling, buttery graham crust, and luscious caramel topping—an irresistible showstopper for any dessert table.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: : 1 cheesecake
Ingredients
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/3 cup butter, melted
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix crust and press into springform pan. Bake 10 mins.
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Beat filling ingredients until smooth. Pour into crust.
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Bake 50–55 mins until set. Chill overnight.
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Top with caramel, whipped cream, and toffee.
Notes
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Water bath helps prevent cracks.
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Salted caramel adds a rich twist!