Ingredients
Method
- 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.