Irresistible Caramel Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

This irresistible caramel swirl cheesecake combines a creamy, smooth filling with a buttery graham cracker crust and luscious caramel ribbons. It’s a perfect dessert for special occasions or whenever you want to impress your guests with something simple yet decadent.

A slice of cheesecake with three main layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a crumbly light brown crust, followed by a thick creamy off-white cheesecake middle layer. The top layer is swirled caramel sauce mixed lightly into the cheesecake and drizzled generously over whipped cream rosettes at the very top, creating shiny, rich amber streaks. The whipped cream is smooth with soft peaks, and the caramel looks glossy and smooth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Step 4: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then drizzle the remaining caramel. Use a knife to gently swirl the caramel into the batter for a marbled effect.
  5. Step 5: Bake the cheesecake for 50 to 55 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Let it cool completely in the pan before removing the springform and serving.

Tips & Variations

  • For a richer caramel flavor, warm the caramel sauce slightly before swirling to help it blend better with the batter.
  • You can add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel swirl for a salted caramel version.
  • To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking and try placing a pan of water in the oven for moisture.

Storage

Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently at room temperature or enjoy chilled. This cheesecake can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake showing four layers: the bottom crust is crumbly and brown, the thick cream cheese layer is light beige, above it is a smooth caramel swirl that blends into the cheesecake layer, and the top is decorated with neat swirls of cream with caramel drizzled over them. The slice sits on a plain white plate with a softly blurred white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly and saves time. You can also make your own caramel sauce if you prefer a homemade touch.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should be firm and set while the center should still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. It will firm up more as it cools.

Print

Irresistible Caramel Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

This irresistible caramel swirl cheesecake combines a rich, creamy cream cheese filling with a buttery graham cracker crust and luscious caramel sauce swirled throughout. Perfectly baked to a smooth, velvety texture, it’s a decadent dessert that satisfies any sweet tooth and impresses at any gathering.

  • Author: Windy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup melted butter

Filling

  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
  2. Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
  3. Make Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Mix in the vanilla extract until just combined.
  4. Assemble Cheesecake: Pour half of the cream cheese batter over the prepared crust in the pan. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce evenly on top of the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the caramel layer. Finally, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the caramel through the batter creating a marble effect.
  5. Bake: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for several hours or overnight to fully set before removing the springform pan and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Do not overbake; a slight jiggle in the center indicates perfect doneness for a creamy texture.
  • Use a water bath method during baking to prevent cracking if desired.
  • Allow sufficient chilling time in the refrigerator before serving to enhance texture and flavor.
  • Caramel sauce can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.

Keywords: caramel cheesecake, gourmet cheesecake, caramel swirl, graham cracker crust, creamy dessert

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