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Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake

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Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake is a decadent dessert featuring a salty-sweet pretzel crust, rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce. It delivers perfect contrast in every bite—smooth, crunchy, sweet, and salty.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 10 to 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (plus more for topping)
  • Sea salt flakes (optional, for garnish)
  • Crushed pretzels (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a springform pan.
  2. Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Mix in vanilla and sour cream or heavy cream until fully incorporated.
  6. Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.
  7. Bake in a water bath for 55–65 minutes, until the center is just set. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cool for 1 hour.
  8. Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  9. Before serving, drizzle with salted caramel sauce and garnish with sea salt flakes and crushed pretzels if desired.

Notes

  • Use a mix of pretzels and graham crackers for a sweeter crust.
  • Swirl caramel into the batter for a marbled effect.
  • Add chopped pecans or toffee bits on top for extra texture.
  • Use a springform pan for best results, but a lined deep dish can work in a pinch.
  • Freeze without caramel topping for up to 2 months, thaw overnight before serving.

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