Step-by-step instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to achieve cheesecake perfection:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed chocolate graham crackers with the melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely.
Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overbeating. Finally, fold in the sour cream until it’s fully blended.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and bake it in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. The center will be slightly jiggly, which is perfect. Once baked, turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour.
Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the cooled cheesecake, allowing it to soak in slightly.
Prepare the chocolate ganache by heating the heavy cream until it’s just about to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and stir until it’s completely smooth. Spread this luscious ganache over the caramel layer.
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight, which helps it set beautifully.
Garnish with chopped Twix bars right before serving for an extra touch of decadence and crunch. Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade creation!
Best ways to enjoy it
For serving, slice the cheesecake into generous portions and present it on a beautiful platter. Consider pairing it with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a burst of color and tartness that cuts through the richness. A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side adds a lovely touch, too.
This cheesecake can also be served next to a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine, making the perfect ending to an elegant dinner.
How to store
To keep your chocolate caramel Twix cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheesecake will stay fresh for about 5-7 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
If you want to store it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Simply wrap them in plastic and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few useful tips to make sure your cheesecake turns out perfectly every time:
- When beating the cream cheese, ensure it’s at room temperature to achieve a smooth consistency without lumps.
- To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, avoid overmixing, especially after adding the eggs.
- If you want a fully chocolate crust, consider using chocolate wafer cookies instead of graham crackers.
Creative twists
While this chocolate caramel Twix cheesecake is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative!
- Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl in some peanut butter with the cream cheese mixture for a peanut butter cup-inspired flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing mint chocolate twist.
- Seasonal Flavors: Experiment with pumpkin puree in the fall or crushed candy canes during the winter holidays for themed variations.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare and bake this cheesecake?
The entire process takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, plus chilling time. Ideally, let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
What if I can’t find Twix bars for garnish?
Feel free to use any chocolate candy bar or chopped nuts like pecans or almonds as a topping instead.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Yes! You can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter version. Dairy-free cream cheese works well for a vegan option, too.
Enjoy crafting this delicious chocolate caramel Twix cheesecake and delighting your guests (or yourself) with every creamy, crunchy bite!
