Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip cheesecake

Short description
I bake a rich, velvety cheesecake loaded with melty chocolate chips and topped with buttery salted caramel for the ultimate sweet‑and‑salty treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cheesecake balances indulgence and sophistication. The creamy, tangy filling studded with chocolate chips meets a sweet and slightly salty caramel drizzle—every bite feels like a decadent dessert without being overly heavy. It’s impressive enough for guests but easy enough to make at home.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Eggs

• Sour cream or heavy cream

• Vanilla extract

• Semi‑sweet or dark chocolate chips

• Graham cracker crumbs or cookie crumbs (for crust)

• Melted butter (for crust)

• Heavy cream (for caramel)

• Granulated sugar (for caramel)

• Unsalted butter (for caramel)

• Sea salt

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 325 °F (163 °C) and grease a 9‑inch springform pan.

2. I stir graham crumbs with melted butter and press the mixture firmly into the bottom (and slightly up the sides) of the pan.

3. I beat cream cheese with sugars until smooth and creamy.

4. I add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined.

5. I mix in sour cream or heavy cream and vanilla until silky.

6. I gently fold in chocolate chips.

7. I pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.

8. I bake the cheesecake for 50–60 minutes—center should still slightly jiggle.

9. I turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracks.

10. I cool it fully at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

11. For the caramel, I heat sugar in a saucepan until it melts to a deep amber, then whisk in butter and cream. I boil briefly, remove from heat, and stir in sea salt.

12. I let the caramel cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 generous slices

• Prep time: ~20 minutes

• Bake time: 50–60 minutes

• Cool + chill time: Minimum 5 hours (including cooling and chilling)

• Total time: Around 6 hours

storage/reheating

• Storage: I keep cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: I slice and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, storing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Reheating: I let the slice sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying to soften the caramel and restore creaminess.

Variations

• Chocolate swirl: I melt reserve chocolate chips and swirl ribbons into the filling before baking.

• Nutty crunch: I top with toasted chopped pecans or almonds along with the caramel.

• Flavored caramel: I stir in a teaspoon of bourbon or espresso powder into the caramel for extra depth.

• Crunchy crust: I mix crushed pretzels or crushed toffee bits into the crust for an extra salty‑sweet edge.

• Fruit topping: I add fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries on top for brightness and color.

FAQs

1. Why didn’t my cheesecake set?

I make sure not to overmix the batter and bake until only the edges are set—the center should still jiggle slightly. Cooling slowly in the oven also helps set it without cracking.

2. Can I use a water bath?

Absolutely. I wrap the springform pan in foil and bake it in a water bath at 325 °F for about 70 minutes for ultra‑creamy results.

3. Is the caramel safe to make ahead?

Yes. I make the caramel earlier and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week, warming it gently before pouring.

4. Can I use low‑fat cream cheese?

I’ve tried it, but the texture is lighter and less luxurious—full‑fat cream cheese gives the best richness.

5. How do I avoid a cracked cheesecake?

I bake gently, cool it gradually (oven door ajar), and use room‑temperature ingredients. Also, avoid sudden temperature changes when removing it from the oven.

Conclusion

I love this Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecake because it delivers layers of flavor and texture—from creamy filling and melty chocolate chips to rich caramel and crisp crust. It’s a showstopper for gatherings or a special treat at home. Every forkful is a luxurious, balanced bite of sweet, salty, and wonderfully indulgent bliss.