Ingredients :
For the crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
For the caramel topping:
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup water
½ cup heavy cream warmed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pinch of salt
Directions :
1. Prepare the crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
2 Make the cheesecake filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the cheesecake:
Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water (about halfway up the sides of the pan). This water bath helps prevent cracks.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
4. Prepare the caramel topping:
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture boil until it turns a deep amber color.
Carefully add the warm heavy cream while stirring, followed by the butter and salt. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Assemble and chill:
Pour the caramel sauce over the cooled cheesecake and sprinkle some crumbs or garnish if desired. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Enjoy your homemade creamy caramel cheesecake!
