Hey there, dessert lovers! I'm here today to share with you a show-stopping recipe that combines two irresistible treats: caramel and cheesecake. Yes, you heard that right! Get ready to indulge in the creamy, caramel-infused goodness of a homemade Caramel Cheesecake. Trust me, this dessert will have you coming back for seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths!
Now, before we dive into the recipe, let me give a shout-out to @utastekitchenuk on TikTok for inspiring this delightful creation.
Here's what you'll need for the crust:
- 2 cups of crushed graham crackers (about 16 crackers)
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
And for the cheesecake filling:
- 3 packages (8 ounces each) of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
For the caramel topping:
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Now that we have everything ready, let's start baking!
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar for the crust. Mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the crust. Pop it in the fridge to chill while we prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure all the ingredients are fully incorporated, but be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Take the crust out of the fridge and pour the cheesecake filling over it. Smooth out the top with a spatula, ensuring an even layer.
Step 4: It's time to bake! Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden on top. The center may still jiggle slightly, but don't worry, it will firm up as it cools.
Step 5: Once the cheesecake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to ensure it's fully chilled and set.
Step 6: While the cheesecake is chilling, let's make the luscious caramel topping. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium-high heat. Let it cook without stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns into a golden caramel color. This should take around 10-12 minutes. Be patient and watch it carefully to avoid burning.
Step 7: Remove the saucepan from the heat and slowly whisk in the heavy cream and butter. Be cautious as the mixture might bubble up. Keep whisking until the caramel is smooth and well combined.
Step 8: Allow the caramel sauce to cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake. Let it cascade down the sides, creating a gorgeous caramel drizzle effect.
Step 9: It's time to dig in! Slice a generous piece of your homemade Caramel Cheesecake, and savor every bite. The creamy cheesecake, the buttery crust, and the velvety caramel topping will transport you to dessert paradise.
This recipe is perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or simply when you're craving a little slice of heaven. Be prepared for compliments and requests for the recipe—it's that good!
Remember to refrigerate any leftover cheesecake to keep it fresh. But let's be honest, this dessert is so delicious, there might not be any leftovers!
So, my fellow dessert enthusiasts, grab your aprons and get ready to create a dessert masterpiece. This Caramel Cheesecake will undoubtedly be the star of your next gathering. Enjoy every delectable bite and share the sweetness with your loved ones.
Until next time, happy baking!