Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 packages (32 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Prepare the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even crust.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
• Add sugar and vanilla extract, continue beating until well combined.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Finally, mix in the sour cream until smooth.
• Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.

4. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes or until the center is set.
• Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for about an hour.
• Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble.
• Stir in the butter until smooth, then add salt to taste.
• Let the caramel sauce cool for a few minutes.

6. Finish and Serve:

• Pour the salted caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake.
• Use a knife to loosen the edges of the cheesecake from the springform pan before removing the sides.
• Slice and serve the delicious Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Enjoy!

This decadent dessert is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the combination of creamy cheesecake and rich salted caramel.