Biscoff Salted Caramel Cheesecake is a dessert lover’s dream, combining the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm spiced flavor of Biscoff cookies and the irresistible sweetness of salted caramel. This indulgent dessert features a buttery Biscoff cookie crust, a velvety cheesecake filling, and a luscious salted caramel topping. Finished with a drizzle of caramel and a sprinkling of flaky sea salt, it’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends. While it looks elegant and complex, it’s surprisingly straightforward to make with the right techniques and a little preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Luxurious Flavor: The combination of spiced Biscoff cookies and salted caramel is rich and irresistible.
Creamy Texture: The cheesecake filling is smooth and velvety, providing a perfect contrast to the crisp crust.
Show-Stopping Dessert: Beautifully layered and topped with caramel, it’s an impressive centerpiece for any dessert table.
Versatile: Works equally well for holidays, dinner parties, or a decadent personal treat.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Cheesecake needs time to chill, making it a great option for preparing in advance.
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 7 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 28g
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups Biscoff cookie crumbs (about 1 1/2 sleeves of cookies)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus extra for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Biscoff cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to create an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can incorporate too much air and cause cracks during baking.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.
- Place the springform pan on a large sheet of aluminum foil and wrap the foil tightly around the bottom and sides to prevent water from seeping in.
- Place the pan in a large roasting dish and pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly for 1 hour.
Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to set.
Step 5: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture cook until it turns a deep amber color.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully whisk in the warmed heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so add the cream slowly.
- Stir in the butter and flaky sea salt until smooth. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature before using.
Step 6: Decorate and Serve
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter.
- Pour the salted caramel sauce over the top, spreading it gently with a spoon or spatula.
- Garnish with extra flaky sea salt and, if desired, crushed Biscoff cookies for added texture and presentation.
- Slice and serve, enjoying the decadent combination of creamy cheesecake and salted caramel.
Ingredient Background
Biscoff Cookies
Biscoff cookies are crisp, spiced cookies with hints of cinnamon and caramel. They create a flavorful, aromatic crust that perfectly complements the salted caramel topping.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is the foundation of cheesecake, providing a smooth, tangy base that pairs well with the sweetness of caramel and the warmth of Biscoff cookies.
Salted Caramel Sauce
Salted caramel strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty, enhancing the richness of the cheesecake. The flaky sea salt adds both flavor and a touch of elegance.
Technique Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the filling on low speed to prevent incorporating air, which can cause cracks during baking.
Water Bath: The water bath creates a moist environment, preventing cracks and ensuring even baking.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least 6 hours to achieve the best flavor and texture.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners to make individual portions. Adjust the baking time to 20–25 minutes.
Layered Cheesecake Bars: Press the crust and filling into a square baking dish and slice into bars for a portable dessert.
Topped with Whipped Cream: Add dollops of whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed cookies or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.
Additional Tips for Success
Prevent Cracks: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath and let it cool gradually in the oven to avoid sudden temperature changes.
Clean Slices: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to achieve clean, precise slices. Wipe the knife between cuts.
Store Properly: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days, or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
Recipe Variations
Chocolate Biscoff Cheesecake: Add 1/3 cup of melted chocolate to the filling for a chocolate-infused twist.
No-Bake Version: Skip the eggs and bake time by using a gelatin-based filling instead. Chill until set.
Peanut Butter Caramel Cheesecake: Swirl in peanut butter with the caramel for a nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free Biscoff cookies or substitute with almond flour and butter.
Freezing and Storing
Freezing: Freeze the cheesecake without the caramel topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the caramel and serving.
Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating Caramel: Gently warm the caramel sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop before drizzling over the cheesecake.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Lightened Filling: Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream and sour cream to reduce calories.
Natural Sweeteners: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a less processed option.
Smaller Portions: Make mini cheesecakes in a muffin tin to control portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Holiday Dessert Table: Place the cheesecake on a decorative cake stand and garnish with festive toppings like sugared cranberries or edible gold dust.
Dinner Party: Serve thin slices with coffee or tea for an elegant dessert course.
Potluck Favorite: Transport the cheesecake in a springform pan for easy travel, and drizzle the caramel just before serving.
Birthday Celebration: Add candles or edible decorations to turn this cheesecake into a show-stopping birthday treat.
Special Equipment
Springform Pan: Essential for easy removal and a clean, professional presentation.
Stand Mixer: Makes mixing the filling quick and smooth.
Aluminum Foil: Needed for wrapping the pan to create a watertight seal for the water bath.
Offset Spatula: Useful for spreading the caramel topping evenly over the cheesecake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different cookie for the crust?
Yes, graham crackers or digestive biscuits work as substitutes, but they won’t have the same spiced flavor.
- What if I don’t have a springform pan?
Use a deep pie dish, though it may be harder to remove the cheesecake cleanly.
- Can I skip the water bath?
While not essential, a water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
- How do I fix cracks in my cheesecake?
Cover them with caramel sauce or whipped cream for a flawless finish.
- Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- How do I store leftover caramel sauce?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before use.
- What’s the best way to crush Biscoff cookies?
Use a food processor or place them in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan and adjust the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Biscoff Salted Caramel Cheesecake is the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and salty, offering a dessert experience that’s as decadent as it is satisfying. With its spiced crust, velvety filling, and rich caramel topping, it’s an elegant showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a well-deserved treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and delight your taste buds with the luxurious flavors of Biscoff and salted caramel!