Salted Caramel Cheesecake
Salted Caramel Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that perfectly balances the tangy smoothness of classic cheesecake with the deep, buttery sweetness of salted caramel. This luscious treat features a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cream cheese filling, and a glossy salted caramel drizzle topped with sea salt flakes for a decadent finish. Ideal for special occasions or everyday indulgence, it’s simple to make while delivering gourmet flavor and customizable variations.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free cookie crumbs for gluten-free option)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. Mix thoroughly with melted butter, then press firmly into the base of a springform pan to create an even, compact crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar, then beat in eggs one at a time to keep the batter smooth. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract until fully combined and silky.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly to ensure a creamy texture.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up and develop flavors.
- Add Salted Caramel Topping: Generously drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake, allowing some to drip down the sides. Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top to enhance the flavor and add texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure smooth batter.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking and keep it moist.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven when the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Homemade salted caramel sauce is recommended for richer, fresher flavor compared to store-bought versions.
- Wrap cheesecake loosely in plastic wrap while chilling to prevent drying of the surface.
- For gluten-free option, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or crushed nuts in the crust.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean, neat slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: salted caramel cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, caramel dessert, gluten free cheesecake, no crack cheesecake