Salted Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
This Salted Caramel Cheesecake is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that brings together the richness of creamy cheesecake with the deep, sweet-salty flavor of homemade salted caramel. With a buttery digestive biscuit crust, a velvety cream cheese filling, and a smooth salted caramel topping, this dessert is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. The addition of toasted cashews on top provides a delightful crunch, making this cheesecake an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Here’s how to make this decadent dessert at home.
Ingredients
For the Base:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Digestive biscuits | 240g |
| Butter (unsalted) | 110g |
For the Cheesecake Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese (softened) | 500g |
| Heavy cream (fresh liquid) | 100g |
| Cornstarch (cornflour) | 25g |
| Sugar | 65g |
| Eggs | 175g |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar (granulated) | 200g |
| Heavy cream (fresh liquid) | 130g |
| Butter (unsalted) | 95g |
| Sea salt flakes | ½ teaspoon |
| Sunflower oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Cashews (whole or chopped) | 80g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Base
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Melt the Butter: Begin by gently melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
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Crush the Biscuits: Add the digestive biscuits into a food processor. Blitz until the biscuits are finely ground, resembling breadcrumbs.
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Combine the Biscuits and Butter: Pour the melted butter into the crushed biscuits and pulse in the food processor until the mixture is well combined and has a wet sand-like texture.
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Prepare the Pan: Line the base and sides of a 20cm (8-inch) springform pan with parchment paper.
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Form the Base: Transfer the biscuit-butter mixture into the prepared springform pan. Press it down firmly using the back of a spoon to form an even base. Then, use the remaining mixture to press along the edges of the pan to create a small border. This will help hold the filling in place.
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Chill the Base: Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the base to set and firm up.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
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Mix the Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and egg yolk with the sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Add Cornstarch: Stir in the cornstarch, mixing until there are no lumps, ensuring the cheesecake will have a smooth texture.
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Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
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Combine with Cream Cheese: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually fold the egg and cream mixture into the cream cheese, ensuring that the filling is well combined and smooth.
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Fill the Pan: Take the chilled biscuit base from the refrigerator and pour the cream cheese mixture over it. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure the filling is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) with a fan or 160°C (320°F) for conventional ovens.
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Bake: Place the pan on the middle shelf of the oven and bake for approximately 70 minutes. The cheesecake should be set on the edges but slightly wobbly in the center.
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Cool the Cheesecake: Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional 30 minutes. This helps to avoid cracks. Afterward, remove the cheesecake and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
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Chill: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up fully.
Step 4: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
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Cook the Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour in the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar melts and turns a golden amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
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Add the Cream: Once the sugar has melted and reached a rich amber color, remove from heat and slowly add the warm heavy cream, stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious.
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Stir in Salt and Butter: Add the sea salt and stir to dissolve. Then, add the butter and stir until smooth.
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Cool the Caramel: Let the caramel cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to thicken for about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Toast the Cashews
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Toast the Cashews: In a small skillet, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the cashews and toast them for a few minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown and aromatic.
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Cool the Cashews: Remove the cashews from the skillet and place them on a plate to cool.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake
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Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is chilled and ready to serve, remove it from the springform pan. Carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Pour the chilled salted caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to cascade down the edges.
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Decorate with Cashews: Scatter the toasted cashews over the top of the caramel, distributing them evenly.
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Final Chill: Place the cheesecake back in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the caramel to set and the flavors to meld together.
Serving the Salted Caramel Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake has chilled and the caramel is set, your Salted Caramel Cheesecake is ready to be served. Slice it with a sharp knife, ensuring each piece gets a generous helping of creamy cheesecake, smooth salted caramel, and crunchy cashews. This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt that will happen!), store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Sugars | 37g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
This decadent dessert is an indulgence, so enjoy it as a special treat! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a rich, creamy dessert, this salted caramel cheesecake is sure to hit the spot.
By following these steps, you’ll create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy!
