Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the perfect trio of chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake.
- Impressively layered, making it a stunning centerpiece dessert.
- Customizable with store-bought or homemade caramel sauce.
- Perfect for chocolate and candy bar lovers.
- Make-ahead dessert that only gets better as it chills!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate graham crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Optional Garnish:
Directions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix crushed chocolate graham crackers with melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in sugar and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
- Fold in sour cream for a smooth batter.
Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour with the oven door slightly open.
Add the Caramel Layer
- Once the cheesecake has cooled, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. Spread it evenly with a spatula or spoon.
Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir until smooth and glossy, then pour the ganache over the caramel layer. Spread evenly.
Chill the Cheesecake
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set all layers completely.
Garnish and Serve
- Top with chopped Twix bars just before serving, if desired.
- Slice and enjoy this decadent dessert!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Cooling & Chilling Time: 5+ hours
Variations
- Candy Alternatives: Swap Twix with Snickers, Kit Kats, or Milky Way for a different twist.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed pretzels or peanuts between layers.
- Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the caramel layer for a sweet-salty combo.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Enjoy cold or let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use crushed Oreos, vanilla wafers, or a classic graham cracker crust.
2. How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at a low temperature, and cool it gradually in the oven.
3. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal, but you can use a deep pie dish as an alternative.
4. What type of caramel sauce works best?
Both store-bought and homemade caramel sauce work well. Choose one with a smooth consistency.
5. How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?
The center should be set but slightly jiggly when shaken gently.
6. Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, but semi-sweet chocolate provides a better balance of flavors.
7. How far in advance can I make this cheesecake?
You can prepare it up to two days in advance; the flavors deepen with time.
8. Can I skip the Twix topping?
Yes, the cheesecake is delicious on its own or with other toppings like whipped cream.
9. What’s the best way to slice the cheesecake?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping it clean between slices.
10. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, but you’ll need a larger pan and may need to adjust the baking time.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Caramel Twix Cheesecake is a dessert lover’s dream. With layers of creamy cheesecake, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, it’s as impressive as it is indulgent. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to treat yourself, this cheesecake will leave everyone asking for seconds!