Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake

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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.

Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
• Yield: 12 slices 1x

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Description

A jaw-dropping dessert with layers of buttery graham crust, velvety baked cheesecake, salted caramel, and glossy chocolate ganache—decadence perfected! Surprisingly simple to make, yet worthy of a pastry shop. Ideal for special occasions

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 24 oz cream cheese (3 blocks), softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp sea salt

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.

3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

4. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

3. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.

4. Pour the filling over the baked crust and smooth the top.

5. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is just set.

6. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).

Step 3: Create the Salted Caramel

1. In a saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted and amber in color.

2. Add butter and stir until fully melted.

3. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring—it will bubble. Stir until smooth.

4. Mix in sea salt and let cool slightly.

5. Pour the caramel over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan or microwave until hot (not boiling).

2. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 2–3 minutes.

3. Stir until silky and smooth.

4. Pour ganache over the caramel layer and spread evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the finished cheesecake for at least 1 hour to set the ganache.

2. Slice and serve with extra caramel drizzle or chocolate curls if desired.

Notes

• Use high-quality chocolate and butter for the best flavor.

• Let each layer cool slightly before adding the next to maintain clean, even layers.

• A springform pan is essential for easy release and professional presentation.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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