Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Salted caramel cheesecake is a dessert masterpiece that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and savory allure of salted caramel. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating your very own salted caramel cheesecake that’s sure to be a showstopper at any gathering or a delightful treat just for yourself.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping (optional):

• Additional salted caramel sauce
• Whipped cream
• Sea salt flakes for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside of the pan with aluminum foil to prevent any leaks.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter.
2. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
3. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

1. Remove the crust from the refrigerator and pour the cheesecake filling over the crust.
2. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.
3. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and add hot water to the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

1. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about an hour.
2. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Once it’s cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup granulated sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until the sugar turns a deep amber color.
2. Add the butter and stir until fully melted and combined with the sugar.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Be cautious as the mixture might bubble.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat, and stir in the sea salt flakes and vanilla extract.
5. Let the salted caramel sauce cool to room temperature.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

1. Once the cheesecake has chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
2. Pour a generous amount of the salted caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
3. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of sea salt flakes.
4. Slice and serve your irresistible salted caramel cheesecake. Enjoy every decadent bite!

Salted caramel cheesecake is the perfect fusion of creamy, salty, and sweet flavors. This indulgent dessert is a testament to culinary creativity and will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy a slice. Follow this recipe to create your own masterpiece, and savor the delightful contrast of flavors in every heavenly bite of salted caramel cheesecake.