Name: Creamy Caramel Cheesecake: Your Ultimate Indulgent Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 360 min
Ingredients: 9 ounces Chocolate Cookie Crumbs (about 28 Oreo cookies); 6 tablespoons Butter (melted) (binds the cookie crumbs together); 2 pounds Philadelphia® Cream Cheese (softened) (provides the cheesecake's creamy texture); 8 tablespoons Butter (softened) (unsalted recommended); ¼ cup Sour Cream (adds a tangy touch); 1 cup Sugar (feel free to substitute with a sugar alternative); 5 Large Egg Yolks (provide richness); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (stabilizes the cheesecake); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (enhances the flavor); 1 cup Sugar (main component for the caramel); ⅓ cup Water (dissolves the sugar); ½ cup Butter (adds creaminess); ¾ cup Heavy Whipping Cream (creates a rich texture); ½ teaspoon Sea Salt (enhances flavor)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sweet caramel wafting through the air, I knew something magical was happening. This Indulgent Salted Caramel Cheesecake with Oreo Crust is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience in every bite. With its rich cream cheese filling nestled in a crispy cookie crust and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel, this cheesecake strikes the perfect balance of salty and sweet. Not only does this recipe make for an unforgettable centerpiece for any gathering, but it also allows you to escape the monotony of fast food and embrace homemade luxury. Trust me, letting this cheesecake sit overnight only intensifies the flavors, creating a luxurious texture that will leave your taste buds dancing. So, are you ready to dive into the delight of making this show-stopping dessert?

Why is This Cheesecake a Must-Try?

Decadent Delight: Each slice of this Salted Caramel Cheesecake invites you into a world of rich flavors, combining creamy goodness with a crunchy Oreo crust.

Simplicity Meets Indulgence: Don’t worry if you’re a novice baker; the straightforward steps make it easy to create a stunning dessert that wows everyone.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a celebration or a simple family dinner, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy your guests’ sweet cravings.

Versatile Twist: Feel free to customize the crust or experiment with various toppings, such as fresh berries or whipped cream, to make this dessert uniquely yours.

Flavor That Improves with Time: Allowing it to chill overnight not only sets the filling but also deepens the flavors, ensuring every bite is pure bliss.

For more delightful dessert inspiration, be sure to check out our Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge and Vanilla Cheesecake Bars recipes!

Caramel Cheesecake Ingredients

For the Oreo Crust

Chocolate Cookie Crumbs – 9 ounces (2 cups); about 28 Oreo cookies will provide a perfect, stable base for the cheesecake.
Butter (melted) – 6 tablespoons; this crucial ingredient binds the cookie crumbs together to form a delicious crust.

For the Cheesecake Batter

Philadelphia® Cream Cheese (softened) – 2 pounds; this is the star that provides the cheesecake’s creamy texture and richness.
Butter (softened) – 8 tablespoons; opt for unsalted butter to have better control over the sweetness.
Sour Cream – ¼ cup; this adds a tangy touch that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Sugar – 1 cup; sweetens the filling; feel free to substitute with a sugar alternative if you prefer.
Large Egg Yolks – 5; these provide richness and help the cheesecake set beautifully.
Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons; stabilizes the cheesecake, ensuring a smooth texture that won’t crack.
Pure Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; it enhances the overall flavor, making each bite delightful.

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

Sugar – 1 cup; the main component that transforms into a sweet, velvety sauce.
Water – ⅓ cup; dissolves the sugar while it caramelizes, ensuring a smooth sauce.
Butter – ½ cup; this will add creaminess to the caramel, making it irresistibly good.
Heavy Whipping Cream – ¾ cup; this ingredient creates the rich and creamy texture of the caramel sauce.
Sea Salt – ½ teaspoon; enhances the flavor and gives that signature salted contrast to the sweetness.

Immerse yourself in the joy of making this Caramel Cheesecake that’s guaranteed to wow your family and friends! Each ingredient plays a significant role in crafting this indulgent delight that promises to captivate taste buds and create lasting memories.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Indulgent Salted Caramel Cheesecake with Oreo Crust

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take a 10-inch springform pan and butter the bottom and sides to prevent sticking. This simple step is essential for ensuring your Caramel Cheesecake releases smoothly after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Melt 6 tablespoons of butter and combine it with 9 ounces of chocolate cookie crumbs in a mixing bowl. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the buttered springform pan, creating a solid base. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a large bowl, blend 2 pounds of softened Philadelphia cream cheese and 8 tablespoons of softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and ¼ cup of sour cream, mixing well. Then, incorporate 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Add 5 egg yolks, one at a time, mixing just until combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your cheesecake.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the creamy cheesecake batter gently over the cooled Oreo crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. To maintain moisture while baking, prepare a water bath by placing the wrapped springform pan in a roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake
Bake your cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 1.5 hours, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 30 minutes. This step helps prevent cracks as it cools gradually, ensuring a smooth surface for your Caramel Cheesecake.

Step 6: Cool and Chill the Cheesecake
After removing the cheesecake from the oven, let it cool on a wire rack for about an hour. Once it reaches room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. Chilling allows the cheesecake to firm up and the flavors to meld, resulting in a truly indulgent treat.

Step 7: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
While the cheesecake cools, prepare the salted caramel. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of sugar and ⅓ cup of water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then allow it to simmer until golden, about 10 minutes. Carefully whisk in ½ cup of butter and ¾ cup of heavy whipping cream, cooking for an additional 10 minutes until smooth. Finally, stir in ½ teaspoon of sea salt for that signature flavor.

Step 8: Serve the Cheesecake
When ready to serve your Indulgent Salted Caramel Cheesecake, drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over each slice. This luscious topping marries beautifully with the creamy filling and crispy crust, elevating your dessert experience. Enjoy this delightful creation, perfect for any special occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Indulgent Salted Caramel Cheesecake with Oreo Crust options are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the Oreo crust and cheesecake batter up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to bake it just before serving. Simply cover the crust tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Once you bake the cheesecake, let it cool and then chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight to enhance its flavors. For the salted caramel sauce, make it ahead of time and simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature up to 48 hours. When it’s time to serve, just drizzle the sauce on the cooled cheesecake, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Indulgent Salted Caramel Cheesecake?

Indulging in a slice of this divine cheesecake opens the door to an exciting world of complementary flavors and textures that elevate your dessert experience.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a burst of freshness that beautifully offsets the creamy richness of the cheesecake.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream serves as a delightful contrast to the dense cheesecake, enhancing each bite.
Chocolate Ganache: For the chocoholics, a silky drizzle of chocolate ganache intensifies the dessert experience. It harmonizes with the Oreo crust and salted caramel, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.
Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee or espresso rounds out the meal perfectly, cutting through the richness and offering a warm, comforting addition to your dessert.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These elegant bites are perfect for enhancing the romantic allure of your cheesecake. Their sweet and slightly tart flavor complements the cheesecake’s lusciousness.
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over your cheesecake for an added crunch. The nutty flavor creates a lovely contrast with the sweet-salty notes of the caramel, intertwining textures delightfully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the cheesecake for an extra indulgence—its cold creaminess will perfectly balance the rich caramel goodness.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch, with bubbles that cleanse the palate and enhance the rich flavors of your indulgent salted caramel cheesecake.

With these delightful pairings, your Caramel Cheesecake experience will surely be an unforgettable treat, perfect for any occasion!

Tips for the Best Caramel Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps to create a smooth batter and reduces the risk of cracks in your Caramel Cheesecake.
Water Bath Wisdom: Using a water bath during baking not only keeps your cheesecake moist but also prevents it from cracking, leading to a beautiful, velvety finish.
Avoid Overmixing: When adding the egg yolks to the batter, mix gently and only until combined. Overmixing introduces air, which can cause your cheesecake to rise and fall, resulting in cracks.
Cooling Process Matters: After baking, let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven for 30 minutes before removing it. This step helps stabilize the structure and prevents sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracks.
Chill for Flavor: Allow your cheesecake to set overnight in the refrigerator. This resting time deepens the flavors, ensuring every bite of your Caramel Cheesecake is pure indulgence.

Caramel Cheesecake: Delightful Variations

Embrace the creative side of your baking journey by customizing this decadent dessert with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs in place of Oreos to cater to gluten-sensitive friends. The flavor remains rich and satisfying!
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate crushed nuts, like pecans or almonds, into your crust for added texture and a nutty flavor. This simple addition transforms your crust into something extraordinary!
Chocolate Lovers: Swap in a brownie crust instead of the Oreo for a fudgier experience. This will take the chocolateiness to another level while keeping every bite indulgent.
Fruity Twist: Add a layer of raspberry or strawberry puree on top before drizzling with caramel. A burst of fruity freshness complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cheesecake batter for a warm, inviting flavor. It’s a surprising twist that can evoke seasonal vibes.
Dairy-Free Surprise: Use coconut cream and almond milk cream cheese for a dairy-free version, making this indulgent treat accessible for everyone. The subtle coconut flavor adds a unique dimension!
Extra Caramel Swirl: For those who can’t get enough caramel, fold in some extra salted caramel sauce into the batter before baking. This’ll create beautiful caramel ribbons for a delightful surprise in every slice.
Cheesecake Bars: Transform this recipe into bars! Pour the cheesecake batter into a lined baking dish instead of a springform pan, and bake until set. Cut into squares for a fun, shareable treat!

For more mouthwatering inspiration, don’t forget to check out our delicious Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake or the velvety Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake. Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Caramel Cheesecake

Fridge: Keep your Caramel Cheesecake covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days. This will help maintain its creamy texture and prevent drying out.

Freezer: If you need to store it longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: Thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight before serving. Drizzle fresh salted caramel over the top to refresh its luxurious taste.

Serving Temperature: For the best experience, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, enhancing its creamy texture and flavor.

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Salted Caramel Cheesecake with Oreo Crust Recipe FAQs

What type of Oreos should I use for the crust?
You’ll want to use regular Oreos for the crust, as they provide the perfect drier texture needed to create a sturdy base. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute with chocolate wafer cookies, but Oreos really give that authentic flavor and crunch!

How should I store leftover cheesecake?
Absolutely! Store your Caramel Cheesecake in the fridge covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days. This keeps it fresh, delicious, and ready for late-night cravings. If you make the salted caramel sauce, store it separately at room temperature in a sealed container.

Can I freeze my cheesecake?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your Caramel Cheesecake, slice it into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Why did my cheesecake crack during baking?
Cracks in your cheesecake can arise from a few factors! The most common culprit is overmixing the batter, as this introduces too much air. Always mix just until combined, especially when adding egg yolks. Additionally, using a water bath while baking prevents your cheesecake from drying out and promotes even cooking for a beautiful finish.

Is this cheesecake pet-friendly or allergen-free?
This recipe is not pet-friendly as it contains ingredients like sugar and dairy that can be harmful to pets. Additionally, it contains common allergens such as dairy, eggs, and gluten (from the Oreos). If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, consider substituting the required ingredients with alternatives, like using gluten-free cookies or dairy-free cream cheese to make it more suitable for different eaters.

How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?
To achieve the best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to let your Caramel Cheesecake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that rich, creamy experience that everyone craves.