Decadent Caramel Pecan Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake:

  • 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Caramel Pecan Topping:

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup pecan halves

Directions:

Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.

Prepare Cheesecake Filling:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

Bake Cheesecake:

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare Caramel Pecan Topping:

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in pecans. Let cool slightly before pouring over the chilled cheesecake.
  2. Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
  3. Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

FAQs:

  • What is Decadent Caramel Pecan Cheesecake? Decadent Caramel Pecan Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that features a creamy cheesecake base topped with a luscious caramel sauce and toasted pecans. The combination of the smooth cheesecake, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful flavor and texture experience.
  • How do you make Caramel Pecan Cheesecake? To make Caramel Pecan Cheesecake, start by preparing a graham cracker crust and pressing it into the bottom of a springform pan. For the filling, beat cream cheese with sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and a bit of sour cream until smooth. Pour the filling over the crust and bake until set. Once the cheesecake has cooled, top it with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce and sprinkle toasted pecans over the top. Chill the cheesecake before serving.
  • Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe? Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce to save time. However, making homemade caramel sauce allows you to control the sweetness and consistency, and it often tastes fresher. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality sauce for the best results.
  • How should I store Caramel Pecan Cheesecake? Store Caramel Pecan Cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days. The cheesecake can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
  • Can I make Caramel Pecan Cheesecake ahead of time? Yes, Caramel Pecan Cheesecake can be made ahead of time. You can bake the cheesecake a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the caramel sauce and pecans just before serving to ensure the topping stays fresh and the nuts remain crunchy. This makes it a great dessert for entertaining or special occasions.

Leave a Comment