Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C) and grease a 10-inch springform pan with baking spray and parchment paper.
- Crush the shortbread cookies in a food processor until finely powdered.
- Combine the cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl, then mix until fully combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Leave the oven at 300°F but turn off convection.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. If necessary, place the cream cheese and eggs in warm water for 5-10 minutes, and microwave the sour cream for 10-20 seconds.
- In a stand mixer bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar at medium-low speed until smooth, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Add the sour cream and vanilla bean paste. Mix on low until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing briefly after each addition to avoid overmixing. Scrape the bowl to ensure a smooth batter.
- Fold the batter a few times to ensure smoothness, then pour it over the prepared crust. Bake for 45 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in with the door cracked for 15 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges to prevent cracking and allow it to cool.
- Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before adding toppings.
- Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan, swirling gently until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes until the mixture turns amber.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Stir in the sea salt and vanilla, and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
- Heat the cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Pour the cream over the dark chocolate and cover to allow the chocolate to melt. Stir gently until smooth.
- Spread the ganache over the chilled caramel sauce and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Top with sea salt flakes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
This cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for any special occasion. The rich combination of smooth cream cheese, buttery crust, salted caramel, and decadent ganache is sure to impress.