Caramel Swirl Cheesecake

Caramel Swirl Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• ¼ cup heavy cream

For the Caramel Swirl:

• ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s evenly spread.
   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until fully combined and smooth.
3. Assemble the Cheesecake:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
   • Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake batter.
   • Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the caramel into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
   • Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
5. Chill:
   • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
6. Serve:
   • Once chilled, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the springform pan, then remove the sides of the pan.
   • Slice and serve, drizzling extra caramel sauce over each slice if desired.

Enjoy your creamy, caramel-swirled cheesecake! Let me know if you’d like to adjust any ingredients or add other toppings!