This Turtle Cheesecake is an indulgent, creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake filling, and layers of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and silky chocolate ganache. It’s the perfect treat for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you need a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress! 🍫🍮✨

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) graham cracker crumbs (or crushed Oreos for a chocolatey base)
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 g) sour cream
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream

For the Topping:

• ½ cup (120 g) caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• ½ cup (90 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans

Directions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
7. Stir in vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.
8. Pour the batter over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

9. Wrap the outside of the pan in foil and place it in a larger roasting pan filled with hot water (about 1 inch deep) for a water bath.
10. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
11. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
12. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Add the Turtle Toppings

13. Pour caramel sauce over the cooled cheesecake, spreading evenly.
14. In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until warm, then pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
15. Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the caramel.
16. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and drizzle extra caramel on top.

Step 5: Slice and Enjoy!

17. Slice and serve chilled for a rich, indulgent dessert experience.

Notes

• For a no-bake version: Use a pre-made crust and refrigerate the cheesecake instead of baking.
• Make it extra crunchy: Add more pecans or toffee bits to the topping.
• Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices and freeze for up to 2 months.

Why This Recipe Works

The creamy cheesecake pairs perfectly with the crunchy pecans, sweet caramel, and rich chocolate, creating a deliciously balanced dessert that’s decadent but not overpowering.

Conclusion

This Turtle Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves cheesecake, caramel, and chocolate. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any celebration, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to make at home. Try it today and treat yourself to a slice of heaven! 🍫🍮✨