Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake

Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines rich layers of creamy cheesecake, buttery caramel, and smooth chocolate ganache. This delightful treat is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your family and friends. Each bite is a heavenly experience, making it a true showstopper on any dessert table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake is worth the time and effort for several reasons. First, it features a delicious combination of flavors and textures that satisfy any sweet tooth. The blend of creamy cheesecake with the sweetness of caramel and the richness of chocolate creates a heavenly taste. Second, it is a great dessert for celebrations, like birthdays or holidays. Lastly, preparing this cheesecake from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and high-quality dessert.

How to Make Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel layer)
6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed (for caramel layer)
1/2 cup heavy cream (for caramel layer)
1 tsp sea salt (for caramel layer)
1 cup heavy cream (for chocolate ganache)
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (for chocolate ganache)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the springform pan.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is well combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the pan.
Bake the cheesecake for 55-60 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
For the caramel layer, heat sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns amber in color. Add the cubed butter and stir until it melts. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring until combined. Let it boil for 1 minute and then remove from heat. Stir in the sea salt. Allow to cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake.
For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it simmers. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly and then pour over the caramel layer.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for another hour until the ganache is set.

How to Serve Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake

Slice the Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake into wedges and place them on dessert plates. It can be served plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a drizzle of extra caramel can add a beautiful finishing touch.

How to Store Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to five days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Tips to Make Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake

Make sure your cream cheese is perfectly softened for a smooth filling.
Don’t rush the cooling process; allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight gives it the best texture.
Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache for a richer flavor.
When making the caramel, watch it closely to avoid burning.

Variation

You can add fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or raspberries on top of the ganache for a fruity twist. If you prefer a different flavor, try using flavored cream cheese, such as vanilla or hazelnut.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Heavenly Millionaire’s Cheesecake a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Absolutely! You can use Oreo cookie crumbs or shortbread cookies for a different flavor in the crust.

Q3: What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
A: Cracks can occur if the cheesecake bakes too quickly. To prevent this, make sure you bake it slowly and don’t open the oven door while it is cooking. If cracks do happen, you can cover them with ganache or caramel.