Description
This Decadent Baked Samoa Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle is a rich and creamy dessert inspired by the flavors of the popular Samoa cookie. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, toasted coconut topping, and luscious drizzles of caramel and chocolate, this cheesecake is a perfect treat for special occasions or indulgent dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
Toppings & Drizzles
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 30 soft caramel candies
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust layer. Set aside.
- Prepare Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth batter.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
- Toast Coconut: Spread shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
- Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
- Melt Chocolate: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and milk. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Decorate Cheesecake: After the cheesecake has cooled, drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the top, then sprinkle toasted coconut over the caramel layer.
- Drizzle Chocolate: Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the melted chocolate in a decorative zigzag pattern over the toasted coconut.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly before serving.
- Serve: When ready, carefully run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake. Remove the sides of the pan, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; the center should jiggle slightly when done for a creamy texture.
- To avoid burning the coconut, toast it carefully and keep an eye on it during baking.
- For cleaner chocolate drizzles, use a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a small cut in the corner.
- Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight enhances its flavor and texture.
