The Ultimate Salted Caramel Cheesecake with Nuts

If you're searching for the ultimate creamy dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of salt, this homemade salted caramel cheesecake is for you. With a velvety smooth texture, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a rich caramel drizzle topped with toasted nuts, every bite is pure indulgence. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an unforgettable treat!

Ingredients (for a 9-inch springform pan)

Crust:

• 2 cups finely crushed graham crackers

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 ounces softened cream cheese

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or all-purpose flour

Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup warm heavy cream

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Topping:

• 1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Crust:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F.

• In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened.

• Firmly press the mixture into the base of a 9-inch springform pan.

• Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Creating the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

• Stir in vanilla extract.

• Add eggs one by one, mixing gently between additions to avoid over-beating.

• Blend in heavy cream and cornstarch until just combined.

• Pour over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

3. Baking the Cheesecake:

• Wrap the outside of the springform pan with foil and place it into a larger baking dish.

• Fill the outer dish with hot water, ensuring it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.

• Bake at 325°F for 60-70 minutes, until the center has a slight jiggle.

• Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool inside with the door ajar for an hour.

• Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4. Making the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar while stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color.

• Add butter and stir until fully dissolved.

• Slowly pour in warm heavy cream, stirring quickly to prevent lumps.

• Stir in sea salt and let cool slightly before using.

5. Assembling the Cheesecake:

• Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the chilled cheesecake.

• Sprinkle with toasted nuts for added crunch and flavor.

• Slice and enjoy your luxurious homemade dessert!

Nutritional Information (Per 100g Serving)

• Calories: 380 kcal

• Protein: 6.8g

• Fat: 27.5g

• Carbs: 27.3g

Total Cheesecake Weight: ~2.6 pounds

Pro Tips for a Flawless Cheesecake

• Use softened cream cheese to prevent lumps in the filling.

• Mix gently to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.

• The water bath technique ensures an evenly baked, silky cheesecake.

• Chill overnight for the best consistency and flavor development.

This heavenly salted caramel cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion—whether it's a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just a well-deserved treat. Try this recipe and impress everyone with a slice of perfection!