Hi friends! My name is Darian and I’m so excited to share my favorite salted caramel cheesecake recipe with you today. As a wife, mother of three, and dog mom to two pups, I’m always looking for delicious recipes that are easy enough to make on a busy weeknight but special enough to serve guests. This salted caramel cheesecake definitely fits the bill!
The smooth, creamy texture paired with the sweet and salty homemade caramel is absolutely heavenly. I’ve made this cheesecake for parties, potlucks, and just a cozy night in with my family – it’s always a huge hit! Keep reading for my tips on making the perfect salted caramel cheesecake, how to serve it, frequently asked questions, and more. I can’t wait for you to try this showstopping dessert!
Salted Caramel Cheesecake
Equipment
- 1 oven
- 1 microwave
- 1 small saucepan
- 1 medium-large sized bowl
- 1 springform pan (or any dish your using)
Ingredients
- 3 Bricks of cream cheese
- ¾ cup White granulated sugar
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3 Eggs
- 2 cups Graham crumbs
- ½ cup Melted margarine
- 1 cup Chewy caramel
- ¼ cup Heavy cream
- 1 tsp Sea Salt
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350F.
- In a medium/large sized bowl, add your bricks of cream cheese (make sure its softened), white granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix using a hand mixer. Once mixed, add in the eggs and continue to mix until the 'batter' is smooth and not clumpy. Set bowl aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the margarine. Once melted, pour the margarine in a small bowl with the graham crumbs. Mix well. (Works really well if you use your hands).
- Spray a springform pan (or any dish your using), then using your hands add the graham crumb mixture into the pan. Press it down on the bottom and on the sides of the pan, using your hands make sure to pack it in - creating your crust. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, add in the heavy cream and the chewy caramels. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes a smooth caramel sauce.
- Pour about 3/4 of the caramel sauce into the cheesecake 'batter' and mix well.
- Pour cheesecake 'batter' over the graham crust.
- Place in oven and bake at 350F for about 35 minutes (times may vary depending on ovens).
- Once done, let cool for 30 minutes.
- After the cheesecake is cooled, drizzle the remaining caramel over the top. Sprinkle sea salt over the entire cheesecake.
- Toss the cheesecake in the fridge and let cool for another 4 hours.
- Enjoy after dinner or for breakfast - I won't judge you.
Video
Cooking Tips
The texture of a salted caramel cheesecake can make or break the whole dessert. Follow these tips for silky smooth, melt-in-your-mouth perfection every time.
- Start with room temperature ingredients. This is especially important for the cream cheese and eggs. Take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before starting on the cheesecake to take the chill off.
- Mix slowly. Beat the cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides. Go low and slow when adding the eggs to avoid overmixing.
- Avoid air bubbles. After mixing the filling, use a spatula to flatten and spread it in the bowl. This pops any air bubbles that could make holes in the finished cheesecake.
- Water bath baking. Place a pan filled with 1 inch of hot water on the rack below the cheesecake while it bakes. The gentle steam prevents cracks on the top.
- Slow cooling. After baking, leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar for an hour. Then cool completely at room temperature before chilling in the fridge. This prevents cracking as well.
The sweet, salty caramel takes this cheesecake over the top! Follow these tips for smooth, delicious homemade caramel every time.
- Use a light colored pan. Copper or stainless steel is ideal to monitor the color and prevent burning.
- Patience is key. Cook and stir slowly over medium heat until the sugar melts completely before raising the heat.
- Watch it closely. Once it starts bubbling, stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat. When it reaches the perfect amber color, immediately remove from heat and carefully stir in the cream and butter.
- Add a pinch of salt. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt balances out the sweetness. Add to taste!
Storing & Serving Salted Caramel Cheesecake
While this salted caramel cheesecake is perfect all on its own, you can dress it up with these fun serving ideas:
- Caramel drizzle – Heat up leftover caramel and drizzle over slices for extra flavor.
- Whipped cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a nice tang.
- Chopped nuts – Pecans, walnuts or peanuts give a delightful crunch.
- Fresh fruit – Sliced strawberries, raspberries or blueberries taste delicious on top.
- Chocolate shavings – For an extra decadent treat, garnish with dark chocolate.
Storage and Leftovers:
- Cover any uneaten cheesecake tightly and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. The creamy texture may firm up slightly but it will still taste delicious!
- To freeze, first chill the cheesecake completely, then wrap very well in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my cheesecake cracks on top?
Cracks happen! Just cover any small cracks with the caramel topping. For larger cracks, a dollop of whipped cream hides them perfectly.
Can I make the crust gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free graham crackers or your favorite gluten-free cookie.
What if my cheesecake puffs up, then sinks?
No worries, this is totally normal! The center will sink as it cools. Just be sure to bake until just set but still jiggly in the center.
How do I get clean slices?
Chill the cheesecake first, then wipe the knife clean between each slice. Dipping in hot water helps!
As a busy mom, I love making this salted caramel cheesecake because it always impresses. The decadent, layered flavors make it taste like something from a gourmet bakery! I’ll never forget the first time I made it for my husband’s birthday. Seeing his face light up with that first bite is a treasured memory. Now it’s become a family tradition for every celebration. I hope you’ll love this salted caramel cheesecake as much as we do!