If you love indulgent desserts, then you're in for a treat with Turtle Cheesecake Supreme! This decadent cheesecake combines everything you crave: a creamy cheesecake base, layers of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and rich chocolate. It’s the ultimate dessert for special occasions—or anytime you want to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert! The best part? It's easier to make than it looks, and the results are absolutely worth it.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- For the Turtle Topping:
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Tools You’ll Need
- 9- inch springform pan
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan for melting chocolate
- Parchment paper optional for easier release
- Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan, and if desired, line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden and set. Let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the sour cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid air bubbles that can cause cracks.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Once the cheesecake is done, turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
- After cooling in the oven, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Step 4: Prepare the Turtle Topping
- While the cheesecake chills, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, pour the caramel sauce over the top, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the caramel layer, then drizzle the melted chocolate on top in a decorative pattern.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
his cheesecake is a showstopper on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas:
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra creamy touch.
Coffee: The richness of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an even more indulgent experience, serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Coffee: The richness of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an even more indulgent experience, serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.