She Strengthens

Salted Caramel Cheesecake: A Decadent Twist on a Classic

The Perfect Blend of Flavors and Textures

Imagine a rich, creamy cheesecake infused with the deep flavors of salted caramel and crunchy pecans. This indulgent dessert is sure to impress your friends and family.

Getting Started

Before you begin, make sure all your ingredients (except the heavy cream) are at room temperature. This will ensure a smooth, creamy cheesecake.

The Crust: A Graham Cracker Foundation

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and arrange a rack in the middle. Butter the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 1/4 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the prepared pan and set it aside.

The Cheesecake: Creamy and Smooth

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine 2 pounds of cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed until light, airy, and smooth. Add 1 large egg yolk and then 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing completely after each addition. Finally, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until blended. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Let the cheesecake cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar.

The Caramel: A Sweet and Salty Addition

In a small saucepan, stir together 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of water. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Let boil for about 3 minutes, or until the mixture turns amber in color. Immediately add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir to incorporate. Remove from heat, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and mix well. Let cool to room temperature.

The Finishing Touches

Pour the cooled caramel over the cheesecake, then scatter 1 cup of coarsely chopped pecans and a pinch of sea salt over the top. This decadent dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Yield and Difficulty

Yield: 12 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes