Description
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Pistachio Caramel Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache. This creamy pistachio cheesecake, layered with rich caramel sauce and a silky chocolate ganache, is topped with crunchy pistachios for the ultimate dessert experience. Perfect for special occasions, this decadent treat will impress guests and satisfy every sweet craving.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup finely chopped pistachios
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Pistachio Cheesecake:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup pistachio paste or ½ cup ground pistachios
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
- Drizzle of caramel sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, chopped pistachios, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
Make the Pistachio Cheesecake:
4. Lower oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
5. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
6. Blend in sour cream, vanilla, and pistachio paste. Sprinkle in flour and mix until smooth.
7. Pour batter over cooled crust.
Bake the Cheesecake:
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, until center is set but slightly jiggly.
9. Cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Make the Caramel Sauce:
11. Heat sugar and water in a saucepan until deep amber in color.
12. Carefully whisk in cream and butter until smooth. Add sea salt if desired.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
13. Heat cream until it simmers, then pour over chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute.
14. Add vanilla extract and stir until glossy.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
15. Pour caramel sauce over chilled cheesecake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
16. Top with chocolate ganache and garnish with pistachios and caramel drizzle.
Notes
- Make this cheesecake a day ahead for best flavor and texture.
- For a nut-free version, replace pistachios with sunflower seeds or omit them.
- To prevent cracks, bake at a lower temperature and let the cheesecake cool gradually.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
