Salted Caramel Cheesecake: A Symphony of Sweet and Savory
This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the irresistible allure of salted caramel, creating a dessert that is truly unforgettable. Prepare to be amazed by this symphony of sweet and savory flavors!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan.
- Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges and the center just slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour to cool slowly.
4. Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil without stirring, and cook until the sugar turns a deep amber color.
- Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble up!) and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in butter and salt until melted and combined.
5. Assemble and Serve:
- Let the cheesecake cool completely before transferring to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours.
- Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake and serve.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a richer flavor: Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the cheesecake filling and salted caramel sauce.
- For a more intense caramel flavor: Use a combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar for the caramel sauce.
- For a more decadent dessert: Top the cheesecake with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts.
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy: Bake the crust for a slightly longer time, or use a pre-baked graham cracker crust.
Enjoy this delightful creation and let the symphony of sweet and savory flavors tantalize your taste buds!
