Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as luxurious as it sounds? Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake is your answer. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy baked cheesecake, a luscious salted caramel layer, and a silky chocolate ganache topping, this dessert truly lives up to its name. It’s a high-end treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home—and perfect for impressing guests or satisfying serious chocolate-caramel cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines three luxurious textures and flavors: cheesecake, caramel, and chocolate
Perfect for holidays, birthdays, and dinner parties
Looks gourmet but uses simple, accessible ingredients
Elevates your dessert table with minimal effort
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – Forms a sweet, crunchy base for the cheesecake.
¼ cup sugar – Adds sweetness and texture to the crust.
½ cup melted butter – Binds the crust and provides rich flavor.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened – The creamy, tangy star of the dessert.
1 cup sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake without overwhelming it.
3 eggs – Create structure and help the filling set.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
1 cup sour cream – Enhances creaminess and balances sweetness with a slight tang.
For the Caramel Layer:
1 cup sugar – The base for a classic caramel.
6 tbsp butter – Adds richness and a smooth finish.
½ cup heavy cream – Provides creaminess for a pourable caramel.
1 tsp sea salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Chocolate Ganache:
1 cup heavy cream – The liquid base for a smooth ganache.
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped – Melts into a glossy, luxurious topping.
Tips and Tricks
Room temperature ingredients ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake.
Use a water bath while baking to prevent cracks.
Allow caramel to cool slightly before pouring to avoid melting the cheesecake layer.
Run a hot knife around the pan before releasing the springform ring for cleaner edges.
Variations and Customizations
Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or toasted almonds over the caramel layer.
Espresso flavor: Stir 1 tsp espresso powder into the ganache for a mocha kick.
Cookie crust: Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos or Biscoff cookies.
White chocolate ganache: Use white chocolate for a creamy, sweet contrast.
Pairing Suggestions
Espresso or strong black coffee
Vanilla bean ice cream for the ultimate indulgence
Fresh raspberries to balance the richness
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate tightly covered for up to 5 days.
Freeze individual slices (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Popular Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This is a perfect make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day in advance and add the caramel and ganache before serving.
Can I skip the caramel or ganache?
You can—but why would you? Each layer adds its own luxury. However, it’s still delicious as a classic cheesecake.
How do I know the cheesecake is done baking?
It should be set at the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
