|

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Homemade Cheesecake, Best Creamy Cheesecake Ever

I have tried so many cheesecake recipes over the years, and honestly, finding a basic cheesecake recipe that actually turns out perfect is harder than I thought. Between chasing my three little humans around and trying to keep the house somewhat standing, I needed something that was easy but still tasted like the best cheesecake ever. After lots of trial and error, I finally landed on what I’d call the best cheesecake recipe homemade. It’s creamy, dreamy, and basically the best creamy cheesecake recipe you’ll ever make.

I love making this for special occasions or even just when I need a little treat for myself after a long day. It’s one of those cheesecake cake recipes that feels fancy, but is really simple. Honestly, I’ve shared this with friends and family, and everyone keeps asking for it again and again. This best classic cheesecake recipe works every time, and it’s easily one of my favorite cheesecake ideas for busy moms like me.

If you’re looking for cheesecake recipes classic style or cheesecake recipes easy homemade, this one’s for you. It’s one of those easy homemade cheesecake recipes that’s actually doable, even if you have toddlers climbing your legs while you bake. The result? A rich, creamy dessert that’s basically the best cheesecake recipe ever. I promise, once you try this, you’ll never go back to boxed or frozen cheesecakes. It’s a true easy cheesecake recipe that’s simple, reliable, and just straight-up delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter

For the cheesecake filling:

  • 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream

For the salted caramel topping:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prep the crust

Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until everything is combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes and let it cool completely. I like to do this while the kids are finishing breakfast because it gives me 10 quiet minutes.

2. Make the cheesecake filling

Beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add sugar, then eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is silky. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust. I swear the texture alone makes you want to grab a spoon right now.

3. Bake the cheesecake

Bake at 325°F for 55–60 minutes. The center should jiggle just a little when you gently shake the pan. Let it cool at room temperature for an hour and then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours—or overnight if you can wait that long (I never can).

4. Make the salted caramel topping

In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns a golden amber color. Add butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the cream while whisking constantly. Finally, stir in the sea salt. Let it cool for a few minutes so it thickens a little before pouring it over the cheesecake. I always have to hide a little spoonful of caramel for myself… nobody tells, promise.

5. Serve and enjoy

Slice the cheesecake, drizzle with that luscious caramel, maybe a little extra sprinkle of salt if you’re feeling fancy, and take a bite. It’s creamy, sweet, a little salty, and pure heaven. Every time I make this, my kids go wild, but somehow I always get my slice first.

FAQs About Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! I usually make it a day before we plan to eat it. In fact, it actually tastes better the next day because the flavors get to settle. Just make sure it’s properly chilled in the fridge.

Can I use a store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it?

Yes, you totally can. Homemade caramel tastes amazing, but if life is crazy and you need a shortcut (hello, three kids!), store-bought works too. Just drizzle it on top before serving.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, cheesecake freezes really well. I usually wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Pro tip: don’t pour the caramel on before freezing—it’s better fresh.

Why does my cheesecake crack on top?

Oh, this happens to the best of us. Usually it’s from overbaking or sudden temperature changes. To avoid cracks, bake low and slow, and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.

Can I make mini cheesecakes instead?

Definitely! I love making mini cheesecakes for parties or when I just want a little treat for myself. Just adjust the baking time—mini ones usually bake faster, around 20–25 minutes depending on your oven.

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Recipe Card

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Rich, creamy, and dreamy, this salted caramel cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for family dinners, special occasions, or when you just need a little treat for yourself. The classic cheesecake base gets topped with gooey homemade salted caramel that perfectly balances sweet and salty. Simple enough to make at home, fancy enough to impress anyone who tries it.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 6 hours
Servings: 12 slices

Ingredients
  

Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
  • 24 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
Salted Caramel Topping:
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the crust
  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
  1. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs one at a time, then vanilla and sour cream. Mix until creamy. Pour over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Bake the cheesecake
  1. Bake at 325°F for 55–60 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Make the salted caramel topping
  1. Melt sugar over medium heat until amber. Add butter, stir until melted, then slowly whisk in cream. Stir in sea salt. Let cool slightly, then pour over cheesecake.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Slice, drizzle with extra caramel if desired, and enjoy!

Making this salted caramel cheesecake has honestly become one of my favorite things to do. Between the kids running around and the million little things I’m juggling every day, I love that this is a basic cheesecake recipe that actually works every time. It’s creamy, rich, and feels like one of the best cheesecake desserts you’ll ever try.

I keep coming back to this because it really is the best cheesecake recipe homemade. It’s not just tasty—it’s one of those best classic cheesecake recipes that people always remember. I love sharing it with friends or just sneaking a slice for myself after bedtime.

If you are looking for cheesecake cake recipes or fun cheesecake ideas, this one’s a winner. It’s perfect if you want cheesecake recipes classic style or cheesecake recipes easy homemade baked. Honestly, it’s one of my go-to creamy cheesecake recipes that’s simple to make but tastes fancy.

Whether you’re searching for an easy cheesecake recipe, easy homemade cheesecake recipes, or even a quick cheesecake recipe, this one checks all the boxes. It’s one of those easy cheesecakes to make that actually feels like a treat, and I promise, it’s basically the best cheesecake recipe ever.

For anyone who loves homemade cheesecake, this is a must-try. It’s the kind of original cheesecake recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Seriously, this is my go-to perfect cheesecake recipe, and it might just become yours too.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating