Caramel Cheesecake Delight (Printer-Friendly Version)

Smooth cheesecake layered on a graham crust, finished with rich homemade caramel sauce.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - ¼ cup packed brown sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - ½ cup sour cream
09 - ¼ cup heavy whipping cream

→ Caramel Topping

10 - 1 cup granulated sugar
11 - ¼ cup unsalted butter
12 - ½ cup heavy whipping cream
13 - ¼ teaspoon salt

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter in a bowl until evenly incorporated. Press mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan to form an even, compact layer. Chill briefly to set.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly. Incorporate eggs one at a time, blending well and scraping the bowl sides. Fold in sour cream and heavy whipping cream until mixture is silky and uniform.
03 - Pour filling over chilled crust and smooth the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 60 to 70 minutes until the center is set but retains a slight jiggle. Cool the cheesecake slowly inside the oven with the door ajar, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
04 - Melt granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until amber in color. Carefully stir in unsalted butter, heavy cream, and salt. Simmer gently until the sauce is smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before spooning over the chilled cheesecake.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Use a water bath during baking to prevent cracking; wrap the springform pan in foil to avoid water leaks.
02 - Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature to ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
03 - Exercise caution when making caramel as sugar becomes extremely hot; use a long-handled whisk and remain attentive.
04 - Avoid overmixing after adding eggs to prevent air bubbles and cracks in the final texture.