Description
This Caramel Macchiato Cheesecake blends the rich flavors of espresso, creamy cheesecake, and decadent caramel for an irresistible dessert. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, coffee-infused filling topped with luscious caramel sauce, this show-stopping cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a café-inspired treat at home.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
For the Caramel Macchiato Layer
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, beating briefly after each addition just until incorporated to avoid overmixing.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, and instant espresso powder, ensuring everything is fully blended and smooth.
- Make the Caramel Macchiato Layer: Warm the heavy cream slightly (either in a small saucepan or microwave until just warm, not boiling). Stir in ½ cup caramel sauce until fully combined. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before gently folding it into the cream cheese batter.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly open. Let it cool gradually for 1 hour—this helps minimize cracking.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for a beautiful, glossy finish. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For easy removal, line the bottom of the springform pan with parchment paper before adding the crust.
- For an extra-indulgent touch, top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of espresso powder before serving.
- Ensure the caramel and cream mixture is fully cooled before mixing into the cheesecake batter to avoid curdling.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Cheesecake is best after chilling overnight for maximum flavor and easy slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 125mg