Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy Pecan Caramel Cheesecake, a decadent dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel swirl topped with roasted pecans. This showstopper dessert is perfect for any occasion, from festive celebrations to cozy family nights, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup roasted pecans, chopped

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

1 cup granulated sugar

2 tsp vanilla extract

3 large eggs, room temperature

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown, then remove and let it cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the Pecans: Gently fold the chopped roasted pecans into the cheesecake batter, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven, leaving the door ajar for about an hour to let the cheesecake cool gradually. This prevents cracking.
Chill and Serve: Once cooled, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results). Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and garnish with additional chopped pecans.

Notes

Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter or swirl melted chocolate into the caramel for a chocolate-caramel combo.
Vegan Version: Replace dairy ingredients with vegan cream cheese, sour cream, and non-dairy butter, and use plant-based caramel sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American