Ingredients
Scale
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
Make the Shortbread Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine butter, sugar, flour, and salt in a mixing bowl until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into a greased 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and flour.
- Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated.
- Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan in a water bath (a larger pan filled with hot water).
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
4. Make the Caramel Layer:
- Heat sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat until the mixture turns amber.
- Carefully stir in heavy cream, butter, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
5. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat heavy cream until steaming (do not boil).
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth.
- Add butter for a glossy finish.
- Spread the ganache over the caramel layer. Chill for 1 hour.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with sea salt flakes, chocolate shavings, or powdered sugar.
- Slice and enjoy this luxurious dessert!
Notes
- Shortbread Crust: Use cold butter to achieve a flaky texture. Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cheesecake Filling: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Caramel: Monitor the sugar carefully to prevent burning. Stir gently to avoid crystallization.
- Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool slightly before spreading for an even layer.
- Chilling: Be patient and allow each layer to set properly for clean slices and perfect presentation.
- Prep Time: 1 hours
- Cook Time: 1 hours 40 minutes