Ingredients
Scale
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 whole graham crackers)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Butterscotch Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup butterscotch chips, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Butterscotch Sauce
- ½ cup butterscotch chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Optional Toppings
- Crushed toffee bits
- Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack it tightly.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Butterscotch Cheesecake Filling
- Melt the Butterscotch Chips: Place the butterscotch chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chips are melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Beat the Cream Cheese: 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 minutes.
- Add Sugars: Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the cream cheese, and beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Incorporate the Butterscotch: Slowly add the melted butterscotch chips to the mixture, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and mix just until combined. Do not overmix to avoid incorporating too much air.
3. Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Water Bath (Optional): For a crack-free cheesecake, place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake: Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
4. Chill the Cheesecake
- Refrigerate: Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
5. Prepare the Butterscotch Sauce
- Melt Chips and Cream: Combine the butterscotch chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth and creamy.
- Cool Slightly: Let the sauce cool to room temperature before drizzling over the cheesecake.
6. Decorate and Serve
- Drizzle and Add Toppings: Before serving, drizzle the cheesecake with the butterscotch sauce and sprinkle with your choice of toppings, such as crushed toffee bits or chopped nuts.
- Slice and Enjoy: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped clean) for clean slices. Serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling and chilling Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g