Indulge in a truly decadent dessert with this recipe for salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecakes. This classic dessert gets a luxurious twist with the addition of creamy salted caramel and rich chocolate chips. Perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or treating yourself on a quiet night in.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples, you may need to seek out a couple of special items. Full fat cream cheese and mini semi-sweet chocolate chips may not be in your regular grocery list but they are widely available in most supermarkets. A good quality salted caramel will also elevate this dish - you can find this in the baking aisle.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
Oreos: A popular sandwich cookie that will form the base of your cheesecake. It's chocolatey and crunchy, providing a great contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
Unsalted butter: Used in the crust to bind the Oreo crumbs together.
Full fat cream cheese: The star of the show, full fat cream cheese gives the cheesecake its rich and creamy texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance out the tang of the cream cheese.
Yogurt: Gives the cheesecake additional creaminess.
Eggs: Helps to bind the ingredients together and achieve a smooth consistency.
Vanilla extract: Adds a depth of flavor to the cheesecake.
Mini semi sweet chocolate chips: Adds little bursts of chocolatey goodness throughout the cheesecake.
Salted caramel: Adds a sweet and salty twist to the classic cheesecake.
One reader, Dinny Garrett says:
This salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate chips, and the perfect touch of salted caramel is pure bliss. It's easy to make and always impresses my guests. A must-try for any dessert lover!
Mastering the Techniques for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
How to prepare the oreo cookie crust: Crush the whole oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or blender. Then, mix the cookie crumbs with melted butter in a medium-sized bowl.
How to bake the crust: Press 1 heaping tablespoon of the crust mixture into the bottom of each liner. Bake in batches for 5 minutes and allow to slightly cool as you prepare the filling.
How to make the cheesecake filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and yogurt, beating until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract and mini chocolate chips.
How to bake the cheesecakes: Spoon the batter into the crusts until nearly full. Bake each pan for 20 to 23 minutes.
How to chill the cheesecakes: After baking, allow the cheesecakes to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours.
How to serve the cheesecakes: Top each cheesecake with salted caramel and additional chocolate chips, if desired, before serving.
How to store the cheesecakes: Cover leftover cheesecakes tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How To Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
These chocolate chip cheesecakes are a combination of Oreos, cream cheese, and chocolate chips. Top it off with a salted caramel sauce and voila!
Serves:
Ingredients
For the Oreo Cookie Crust:
- 18whole oreos,double stuf or regular
- ¼cupunsalted butter,melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16ozfull fat cream cheese,softened to room temperature
- ¾cupgranulated sugar
- ¼cupyogurt
- 2large eggs
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- 1cupmini semi sweet chocolate chips,or regular size
- salted caramel,homemade
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two 12-count cupcake pans with 18 liners.
Crust:
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In a food processor or blender, pulse the whole Oreos into a fine crumb. Stir the cookie crumbs and melted butter together in a medium-sized bowl.
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Press 1 heaping Tablespoon of mixture into the bottom of each liner. Bake in batches for 5 minutes and allow to slightly cool as you prepare the filling.
Filling:
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In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
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Add the sugar and yogurt and beat on medium speed until combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating at low speed after each addition.
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Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla extract and mini chocolate chips.
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Spoon batter into the crusts until nearly full. Bake each pan for 20 to 23 minutes.
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Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to chill for at least two hours.
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Before serving, top each cheesecake with salted caramel and additional chocolate chips, if desired.
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Cover leftover cheesecakes tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 253.54kcal
- Fat: 17.00g
- Saturated Fat: 9.11g
- Trans Fat: 0.12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.09g
- Carbohydrates: 24.25g
- Fiber: 0.92g
- Sugar: 19.45g
- Protein: 3.37g
- Cholesterol: 55.61mg
- Sodium: 149.50mg
- Calcium: 38.39mg
- Potassium: 112.15mg
- Iron: 1.96mg
- Vitamin A: 123.72µg
- Vitamin C: 0.02mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
When making the cheesecake filling, ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature. This will make it easier to beat and will result in a smoother, creamier texture. Also, when adding the eggs, add them one at a time and beat the mixture on low speed. This will prevent the batter from getting too much air, which can cause the cheesecakes to crack. Lastly, don't forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delectable Dessert
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the cheesecakes to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly crush the Oreo cookies for the crust, saving time and effort.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese, eggs, and yogurt are at room temperature before starting to make the filling for smoother and quicker mixing.
Chill the crust: While preparing the filling, chill the crusts in the cupcake pans in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.
Bake in batches: Bake the crusts in batches while preparing the filling to maximize oven efficiency and save time.
Pre-portioned cheesecakes: Portion the cheesecake batter into the crusts before baking to save time on filling each cup individually.
Chill and store: Chill the cheesecakes in the refrigerator for at least two hours and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days to save time on daily preparation.
Substitute Ingredients For Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes Recipe
oreos - Substitute with chocolate graham crackers: Chocolate graham crackers can provide a similar chocolate flavor and crunchy texture for the crust.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the crust.
full fat cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free version of the cheesecake filling.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural sweetener with a slightly caramel-like flavor.
yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt can be used as a dairy-free alternative to regular yogurt.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs in the cheesecake filling.
mini semi sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can provide a similar chocolate flavor and texture without the added sweetness of chocolate chips.
salted caramel - Substitute with date caramel: Date caramel can be used as a natural sweetener with a caramel-like flavor, and it's a healthier alternative to traditional caramel.
Presenting the Perfect Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
Elevate the plating: When presenting the salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecakes, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use a clean, white plate to showcase the rich, decadent cheesecakes. Ensure that the cheesecakes are centered and evenly spaced, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with precision. Drizzle the salted caramel in a deliberate and artistic manner, ensuring that each cheesecake is adorned with a perfect swirl of caramel. This attention to detail will impress the culinary professionals and elevate the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Introduce textural contrast to the dish by incorporating a delicate element such as a shard of chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts. This addition will provide a delightful crunch and elevate the sensory experience of the cheesecakes.
Emphasize symmetry: Pay attention to symmetry when arranging the cheesecakes on the plate. Aim for uniformity in the placement of each cheesecake, creating a visually balanced and harmonious presentation that reflects precision and artistry.
Highlight the salted caramel: Showcase the salted caramel as a focal point of the presentation. Ensure that the drizzle of caramel is prominent and visually striking, drawing attention to the exquisite flavor combination of salted caramel and chocolate chip cheesecake.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to allow the cheesecakes to stand out. By strategically incorporating empty spaces on the plate, you can draw attention to the individual cheesecakes and create a visually captivating presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to every detail, from the placement of the chocolate chips to the smoothness of the cheesecake surface. Each element should reflect precision and care, demonstrating a commitment to culinary excellence.
Essential Tools for Making Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for tasks such as grinding, chopping, and blending ingredients. It's great for making the Oreo cookie crust for the cheesecakes.
- Blender: A blender can also be used to pulse the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs for the crust.
- Cupcake pans: Cupcake pans are essential for baking the individual cheesecakes. They provide a perfect portion size and help the cheesecakes hold their shape.
- Handheld or stand mixer: A handheld or stand mixer is used to beat the cream cheese and other ingredients together to create a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
- Mixing bowl: Mixing bowls are necessary for combining the cookie crumbs with melted butter for the crust, as well as for preparing the cheesecake filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so measuring cups and spoons are essential for portioning out ingredients like sugar, yogurt, and vanilla extract.
- Spatula: A spatula is useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and for smoothing the cheesecake batter into the cupcake liners.
- Oven: The oven is used for baking the cheesecakes to perfection at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Refrigerator: The refrigerator is needed for chilling the cheesecakes after they have been baked, allowing them to set and develop their flavors.
- Piping bag or squeeze bottle: A piping bag or squeeze bottle can be used to drizzle the salted caramel over the cheesecakes for a decorative finish.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Cheesecakes
Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for the salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecakes recipe:
- Refrigerator storage: Cover the cheesecakes tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese and yogurt in the filling help keep the cheesecakes fresh and moist.
- Freezing individual cheesecakes:
- Place the cooled cheesecakes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Wrap each frozen cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, remove the desired number of cheesecakes from the freezer and let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight.
- Freezing a whole batch:
- Place the cooled cheesecakes in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, remove the container from the freezer and let the cheesecakes defrost in the refrigerator overnight.
- Topping storage: Store the salted caramel topping separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat the caramel gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before drizzling over the cheesecakes.
Interesting Trivia About Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes
The recipe for salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecakes is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors. These mini cheesecakes are perfect for portion control and make a great addition to any dessert table. They can be easily customized by adding different toppings such as fresh fruit or whipped cream. These cheesecakes are also a great make-ahead dessert option for parties or gatherings. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a convenient and delicious treat to have on hand.
Is Making These Cheesecakes at Home Cost-Effective?
This salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecakes recipe can be cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as cream cheese, sugar, and chocolate chips, are commonly found in most kitchens. However, the cost may increase due to the use of semi-sweet chocolate chips and salted caramel. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, factoring in the use of quality ingredients.
Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?
This salted caramel chocolate chip cheesecake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - cream cheese, sugar, butter, and chocolate chips - are all high in fat and sugar, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, the Oreo cookie crust adds even more sugar and processed ingredients to the mix.
However, there are a few redeeming qualities:
- The recipe does include some yogurt, which can provide beneficial probiotics and a slight protein boost.
- The portion sizes are relatively small, as the cheesecakes are baked in cupcake tins, which can help with portion control.
To make this recipe healthier, you could try the following modifications:
- Replace some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or silken tofu to reduce the fat content and increase the protein.
- Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the overall sugar content.
- Swap out the Oreo cookie crust for a healthier alternative, such as a almond flour or oat-based crust.
- Reduce the amount of chocolate chips used, or opt for dark chocolate chips, which contain less sugar and more antioxidants.
- Top the cheesecakes with fresh fruit instead of (or in addition to) the salted caramel sauce.
Editor's Opinion on These Indulgent Cheesecakes
The combination of the rich, creamy cheesecake filling with the decadent salted caramel and chocolate chip topping creates a delightful and indulgent dessert. The Oreo cookie crust adds a delightful crunch and complements the smooth texture of the cheesecake. The balance of sweetness and saltiness in the salted caramel enhances the overall flavor profile. This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
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Why trust this Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a decadent and indulgent treat, combining the rich flavors of salted caramel and chocolate chips with the creamy texture of cream cheese. The use of full fat cream cheese ensures a luscious and velvety filling, while the addition of yogurt brings a subtle tanginess. The incorporation of mini semi sweet chocolate chips adds delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite. The oreo cookie crust provides a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Topped with a generous drizzle of salted caramel, this recipe promises a delightful and irresistible dessert experience.
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