Servings: 8–10 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Calories: ~450 per slice
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 crackers, crushed)
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Ganache Layer:
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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½ cup heavy cream
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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2 cups cream cheese (about 16 oz), softened to room temperature
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½ cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or freshly whipped)
For the Caramel Layer:
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1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Optional Final Drizzle:
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Additional chocolate chips + a splash of heavy cream (for melting and drizzling)
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
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In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
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Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed cup.
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Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to firm up.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Layer
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In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup chocolate chips and ½ cup heavy cream.
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Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
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Pour the chocolate ganache over the chilled crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
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Return to the fridge for 15–20 minutes, or until set.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
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Gently fold in the whipped cream with a spatula to keep the texture light and airy.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake
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Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the chocolate layer. Spread evenly using a spatula.
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Drizzle or pour caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer and spread it gently to cover the surface.
5. Optional: Add Final Chocolate Drizzle
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For an elegant finish, melt an additional ½ cup of chocolate chips with a splash of cream.
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Drizzle over the caramel layer and let some drip naturally down the sides.
6. Chill Until Set
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Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow all layers to firm up.
7. Slice and Serve
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Run a warm knife (dipped in hot water and wiped dry) around the edges of the springform pan before releasing.
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Cut into slices and serve chilled.
Tips for Success
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Softened cream cheese is key to avoiding lumps—let it come to room temperature before mixing.
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To make your own whipped cream, beat ¾ cup heavy cream with 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
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Want a salty-sweet twist? Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel before adding the chocolate drizzle.
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Crust variation: Substitute graham crackers with crushed shortbread or chocolate cookies for a different base flavor.
Make-Ahead & Storage
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Make Ahead: You can prep this cheesecake a day in advance—great for parties or gatherings!
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Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.
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