chocolate caramel cheesecake recipe

chocolate caramel cheesecake recipe

The Best chocolate caramel cheesecake recipe

I have been making this chocolate caramel cheesecake recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The combination of rich, velvety chocolate and gooey caramel is absolute perfection. I love how the cheesecake’s creamy texture pairs with the crunchy graham cracker crust.

It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a special dinner party or just a Tuesday night. I’ve also been experimenting with healthier variations, using less sugar and adding in some nutritious nuts and seeds. My kids adore helping me make it, especially when they get to drizzle on the caramel sauce.

It’s a great way to spend quality time together in the kitchen. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you try it! The best part is that it’s actually pretty easy to make, even for a beginner like me.

I mean, who doesn’t love a good cheesecake? The key to making this recipe is to not overmix the batter, so make sure you stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together in a ball. Don’t overbake it either – you want it to be slightly jiggly in the center.

Now, let’s get started with the recipe! First things first, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. While that’s heating up, let’s talk about the history of this dessert…

The origins of cheesecake date back to ancient Greece and Rome, where they made something similar called ‘plakous.’ It was basically a flat cake made from cheese, honey, and flour. Over time, different cultures adapted this recipe to include various ingredients like chocolate and nuts.

Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake

Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake

4.7 from 1823 votes

A rich and creamy cheesecake with a chocolate cookie crust, topped with a smooth caramel sauce. This indulgent dessert combines the deep flavor of chocolate with sweet, buttery caramel for a perfect finish.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time55 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 25 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (about 20 cookies)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), plus more for drizzling

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping

1/2 cup heavy cream
4 oz semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with a double layer of aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath.
3In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar.
4Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
5Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the bottom of a glass to compact it.
6Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
7In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
8Add 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
9Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until incorporated.
10Mix in the sour cream and flour until the batter is smooth and no streaks remain.
11Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust.
12Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the batter, then gently swirl with a knife.
13Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth the surface with a spatula.
14Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
15Bake at 350°F for 50 to 55 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when shaken.
16Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
17Remove from the water bath, run a knife around the edge of the pan, and let cool completely on a wire rack.
18For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, about 3 minutes.
19Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
20Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake, spreading it evenly to the edges.
21Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
22Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top.
23Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean cuts.

🔧Equipment

9-inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Small saucepan
Wire rack
Aluminum foil

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 380mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 33g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter. The water bath helps prevent cracking, but if cracks do appear, they can be hidden under the ganache and caramel drizzle. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Watch Video Of How Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake Works

This chocolate caramel cheesecake recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a birthday party or just a regular Tuesday night dinner. My family loves when I serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

For storage ideas, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake

Q: What type of chocolate should I use for this recipe?

In this recipe, we’re using high-quality dark chocolate chips for an intense chocolate flavor. You can also use milk chocolate or semisweet chocolate if you prefer a milder taste.

Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheesecake batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent cracking, make sure your springform pan is well-greased before adding the batter. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and don’t open the oven door during baking.

Q: Can I substitute caramel sauce with something else?

You can use dulce de leche or butterscotch sauce as alternatives to caramel sauce if you prefer.

Q: Why does this recipe include nuts?

The chopped walnuts add texture and flavor contrast to the rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake.

Similar Posts