Description
This Caramel Macchiato Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that perfectly combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the bold flavors of espresso and sweet caramel. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth filling infused with vanilla and caramel, this cheesecake is baked in a water bath for the perfect silky finish. Topped with whipped cream and drizzled with extra caramel sauce, it’s an indulgent treat that coffee and dessert lovers will adore.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese (made with microbial or vegetarian rennet)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for topping)
Topping
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for whipped topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). If using a water bath, wrap the exterior of your springform pan in foil to prevent leaks, and prepare a baking dish with hot water to place the pan in.
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the base of the springform pan to form an even crust layer. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese using a mixer until smooth and creamy. Add in the sour cream, 1 cup of granulated sugar, alcohol-free vanilla extract, cooled espresso, and 1/2 cup caramel sauce. Blend all ingredients until well combined and smooth.
- Add the eggs: Crack the eggs in one at a time, mixing after each addition just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cheesecake.
- Pour filling over crust: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the springform pan in the prepared water bath in the oven. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when shaken gently.
- Cool slowly: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar. Let it rest and cool gradually for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
- Add topping: Before serving, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Pipe the whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake and drizzle with additional caramel sauce for a beautiful, tasty finish.
- Serve: To slice, warm a knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and cut clean slices. Enjoy your creamy caramel macchiato cheesecake!
Notes
- Using a water bath helps ensure the cheesecake cooks evenly and prevents cracks.
- Cool the espresso completely before adding to avoid curdling the batter.
- For added coffee flavor, use espresso or strong brewed coffee.
- Wrap the springform pan well with foil to prevent water leaks during the water bath baking process.
- Let the cheesecake chill for at least 6 hours to develop its flavors and firm texture.
- Use a warm knife to get clean slices when serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel macchiato cheesecake, espresso cheesecake, caramel cheesecake, coffee flavored cheesecake, baked cheesecake, dessert
