Description
This Indulgent Swirled Caramel Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy cream cheese filling, and rich caramel swirls for a decadent dessert experience. Perfectly baked to a silky texture with a beautiful marbled caramel finish, it’s an impressive treat for any special occasion or sweet craving.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
Filling
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Caramel Swirl
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For Serving (Optional)
- 1 tsp cocoa powder (optional for dusting)
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until thoroughly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and ¼ cup heavy cream until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform.
- Create the Caramel Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the caramel sauce and ¼ cup heavy cream until smooth. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Drizzle the caramel mixture evenly over the top of the filling. Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the caramel through the filling, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Afterward, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the cheesecake with cocoa powder if desired. Slice the cheesecake and drizzle extra caramel sauce over each serving for added indulgence.
Notes
- Make sure all cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Be careful not to overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to avoid drying out.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Refrigerating overnight improves texture and flavor melding.
- You can substitute caramel sauce with homemade caramel for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
