Decadent Pecan Caramel Cheesecake That Steals the Show
This Pecan Caramel Cheesecake combines indulgence and simplicity, making it a showstopper dessert for any occasion.
Equipment
- 10-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Saucepan
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs Substitute with cookie crumbs or gluten-free crumbs
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Replace with coconut sugar for flavor twist
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Dark brown sugar recommended
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt Use sea salt or kosher salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Coconut oil for dairy-free option
Filling
- 16 ounces Cream Cheese Full-fat yields best results
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Arrowroot powder is an alternative
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Full-fat coconut cream as dairy-free option
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste Swap with pure vanilla extract
- 3 large Eggs Use ground flaxseed mixed with water for egg-free option
Topping
- 1 cup Caramel Sauce Homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup Pecans Walnuts or almonds as alternatives
Instructions
Prepare Crust
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until it resembles wet sand. Press into the bottom of a greased springform pan and bake at 350°F for 12 minutes.
Make Filling
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt; mix until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and caramel, add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Fold in sour cream and heavy cream.
Bake Cheesecake
- Pour the filling into the baked crust, smoothing the top. Bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Cooling Process
- Turn off the oven, leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour, then cool at room temperature and refrigerate overnight.
Prepare Topping
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cream, bubble for a moment. Add pecans and let cool slightly.
Serve
- Release the cheesecake from the springform pan, drizzle the topping over, slice, and serve.
Notes
Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence. For best texture, chill overnight.