Salted Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
Introduction
Cheesecake is a classic dessert that has won hearts worldwide with its creamy texture and rich flavor. When you add a luxurious layer of caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, you elevate this beloved dessert to an entirely new level. This Salted Caramel Cheesecake combines a crunchy pecan graham cracker crust, a smooth and velvety cream cheese filling, and a decadent caramel topping, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a treat for yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the detailed process of making this exquisite dessert.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup (40 g) finely chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon firmly packed light brown sugar
- 7 tablespoons melted salted butter
For the Cheesecake:
- 24 oz (680 g) softened brick-style full-fat cream cheese
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120 g) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (236 ml) thick caramel sauce, divided
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup of finely chopped pecans, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of firmly packed light brown sugar. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the sugars and pecans throughout the graham cracker crumbs.
- Add Melted Butter: Pour 7 tablespoons of melted salted butter over the dry ingredients. Mix until all the crumbs are moistened and the mixture has a sandy texture. The melted butter acts as a binder, holding the crust together and adding rich flavor.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly onto the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat glass to press the crust firmly and create a compact base. This step ensures that the crust holds together when the cheesecake is sliced.
Step 2: Preparing the Cheesecake Filling
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Proper preheating is crucial for even baking.
- Cream the Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine 24 ounces of softened brick-style full-fat cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and lump-free. This step is essential for achieving a velvety cheesecake texture.
- Add Sour Cream and Vanilla: Add ½ cup of sour cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined. Sour cream adds a slight tang and creaminess to the cheesecake, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
- Incorporate the Eggs: In a separate bowl, lightly beat each of the 3 large eggs with a fork. Add the eggs one at a time to the cheesecake batter, mixing on low speed until just combined. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake, so be gentle during this step.
Step 3: Assembling the Cheesecake
- Layer the Batter and Caramel: Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Drizzle ¼ cup (59 ml) of caramel sauce evenly over the batter. This caramel layer adds a delightful sweetness and a hint of complexity to each bite. Top with the remaining cheesecake batter, spreading it evenly to cover the caramel.
- Bake: Place the pan on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. The cheesecake is done when it is almost set; the center should still jiggle slightly like Jell-O, and the edges may puff slightly. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and crack the door open several inches. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake. The caramel should be at room temperature to spread easily and evenly.
- Chill: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill completely, for at least 6 hours or overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- Garnish and Serve: Once fully chilled, remove the springform ring. If desired, sprinkle the surface of the cheesecake with flaky sea salt. The salt enhances the caramel flavor and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Slice and serve the cheesecake, enjoying the creamy, rich texture and the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Tips and Variations
- Pecan Substitution: If you prefer or need a nut-free crust, you can omit the pecans and use additional graham cracker crumbs instead.
- Homemade Caramel Sauce: For the best flavor, make your own caramel sauce. Homemade caramel tends to be richer and less processed than store-bought versions. Follow your favorite recipe for a thick, luscious caramel.
- Crust Alternatives: Experiment with different types of crusts, such as a chocolate cookie crust or a gingersnap crust, to add unique flavors to your cheesecake.
- Serving Suggestions: This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Fresh berries also add a lovely touch of color and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap, for up to five days. You can also freeze the cheesecake for longer storage; wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Conclusion
This Salted Caramel Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the decadent flavor of caramel and the subtle crunch of a pecan graham cracker crust. The sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a gourmet touch, enhancing the caramel and balancing the sweetness.
Baking a cheesecake can be a rewarding experience, especially when the result is as delicious as this one. The steps are straightforward, and the key to success is taking your time with each stage, from mixing the batter to allowing the cheesecake to cool and set properly.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at cheesecake for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress. The flavors are sophisticated yet comforting, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on the delightful journey of baking this Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends and family will be begging for the recipe. Enjoy the process and the incredible flavors of this exquisite dessert! Happy baking!