A Slice of Heaven: Irresistible Salted Caramel Cheesecake

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy cheesecake and luscious salted caramel. This decadent dessert pairs velvety smooth cream cheese with the sweet-salty harmony of caramel, creating a symphony of flavors that’s impossible to resist. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake filling, and a drizzle of golden caramel, this recipe is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a treat-yourself moment, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Not only is salted caramel cheesecake a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also surprisingly manageable to make at home. Follow this detailed guide, and you’ll have a showstopping dessert that rivals any bakery.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs	2 cups
Granulated sugar	1/4 cup
Unsalted butter (melted)	1/2 cup
Cream cheese (softened)	24 oz (3 blocks)
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Large eggs	3
Sour cream	1/2 cup
Heavy cream	1/2 cup
Vanilla extract	2 tsp
Salted caramel sauce	1 1/2 cups
Sea salt flakes	For garnish

Substitutions & Tips

• Swap graham crackers for digestive biscuits or Oreo crumbs for a twist on the crust.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
• Homemade salted caramel sauce is ideal, but store-bought works if you’re short on time.

Equipment Needed

• Springform pan (9-inch): Essential for easy removal of the cheesecake.
• Mixing bowls: For combining crust and filling ingredients.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer: To achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Parchment paper: For lining the pan to prevent sticking.
• Baking sheet with water (water bath): Helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Mix in the sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Pour the batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Baking the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the dish, ensuring it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
2. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 60–70 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will jiggle slightly when shaken.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
4. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Adding the Salted Caramel

1. Once the cheesecake is chilled, pour 1 cup of salted caramel sauce evenly over the top, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides.
2. Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top for a beautiful finish.

Tips and Variations

• Avoid cracks: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, and don’t overmix the batter.
• Crust alternatives: Try pecan or almond crusts for a nutty flavor.
• Dairy-free option: Use plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream for a vegan version.
• Chocolate twist: Add a layer of melted chocolate under the caramel for a layered treat.
• Salted caramel swirl: Reserve some cheesecake batter and swirl caramel into it before baking for a marbled effect.

Serving Suggestions

When serving, use a sharp, heated knife for clean slices. Pair the cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. For garnish, add a sprinkle of sea salt or top each slice with a caramel candy for an elegant touch. Pairing it with a side of fresh berries adds a pop of color and balances the richness of the dessert.

Pairings

This dessert shines alongside a variety of drinks. For a rich, luxurious experience, serve with a glass of tawny port or sweet Moscato. If coffee is your go-to, a caramel latte or cappuccino will complement the flavors beautifully. Non-alcoholic options like a caramel apple cider or a chilled vanilla bean milkshake also pair exceptionally well.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. For reheating, allow a frozen slice to come to room temperature naturally to maintain its texture.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 slice)	Amount
Calories	450
Total Fat	29g
Carbohydrates	40g
Protein	6g
Sodium	320mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Salted caramel cheesecake is the epitome of indulgence, bringing together the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet-salty balance of caramel for a truly unforgettable dessert. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect base, while the smooth, velvety filling melts in your mouth with every bite. Topped with golden salted caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt, it’s an elegant showstopper that’s guaranteed to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or simply treating yourself, this dessert is the perfect balance of decadence and sophistication.

What makes this recipe even more special is how approachable it is to create at home. With a few simple steps and a little patience, you can achieve bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations or pairings to make it your own! We’d love to see how yours turns out—share your photos, leave a comment, or tell us your favorite twist on this recipe. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious slice!