No-bake caramel cheesecake

Ingredients

Caramel

200 grams (7.05 ounces) sugar
100 grams (3.53 ounces) whipping cream
70 grams (2.47 ounces) butter

Crispy layer

130 grams (4.59 ounces) oatmeal
50 grams (1.76 ounces) walnuts
5 grams (0.18 ounces) vegetable oil
70 grams (2.47 ounces) caramel

Cheese mass

450 grams (15.87 ounces) cream cheese
35 grams (1.23 ounces) Baileys
150 grams (5.29 ounces) white chocolate
170 grams (6.00 ounces) caramel
100 grams (3.53 ounces) whipping cream

Equipment

Silicone Spatula
Perfect for stirring while avoiding scratch marks on your pans. It's heat-resistant, so no more warped utensils!
Saucepan
You need a good-quality one for even heat distribution while making caramel.
Whisk
Ensures a smooth, lump-free caramel and cheese mass. Go for a stainless steel version for durability.
Sieve
For straining the caramel, which ensures a silky texture in your finished dessert.
Mixer
Combines ingredients effortlessly, ensuring a velvety smooth cheese mass.
Mold (18-20cm)
An 18-20cm mold helps shape your cheesecake perfectly, giving you that professional touch.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Prepare the caramel: Heat the sugar in a saucepan until completely dissolved, stirring with a silicone spatula. Keep an eye on the sugar to prevent burning. Meanwhile, heat the cream until it begins to boil. Once all the sugar has melted, carefully add the hot cream to it while mixing well with a whisk. Remove from heat and add the butter, stirring until smooth. Pass the caramel through a sieve to remove any lumps. This amount of caramel is enough for the cheesecake and the base, with a bit left over for decoration.

Step 2

2. Make the crispy layer: Put the caramel, butter, oatmeal, and chopped nuts in a pan. Fry, stirring constantly, for 3-5 minutes over medium heat. Ensure even mixing to prevent burning. Spread and compact the mixture in an 18-20cm (7.09-7.87 inch) mold.

Step 3

3. Prepare the cheese mass: Whip the cream and melt the chocolate. In a mixer bowl, combine the cream cheese, warm caramel, and Baileys. Stir with a whisk until smooth. Add the melted chocolate and combine thoroughly. Finally, add the whipped cream and combine well. Ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Pour the cheese mass over the crispy base and place the cheesecake in the fridge for 3-4 hours until completely solidified.

Servings

Picture this: your cheesecake is finally set and looks stunning. Now, how to serve it? A few vibrant ideas:

🍓 Seasonal Berries: Top your cheesecake with a medley of fresh berries—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries— to add a tangy contrast to the rich flavors.

🍫 Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top. It creates a beautiful pattern and adds a delightful bittersweet crunch.

🧁 Mini Cheesecake Bites: For a party, consider cutting your cheesecake into bite-sized pieces. Slide them into colorful cupcake liners for a cute, grab-and-go option.

☕ Pair with Coffee: Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso for a classic combo that enhances the cheesecake's flavors.

No matter how you slice it, this cheesecake is going to be the star of your table! 🏆

Variations

Need this recipe to fit specific dietary needs? We've got you covered!

🌾 Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the oatmeal with gluten-free oats. Also, ensure your baking powder and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

🌱 Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based whipping cream. Replace butter with coconut oil, and use a vegan Baileys alternative. For the white chocolate, opt for a vegan version or simply omit it. Your vegan friends will love you for this! 🥥

Faq

Why did my caramel crystallize?
It likely happened because the sugar wasn't completely dissolved. Ensure you stir patiently until all grains are melted.
How do I know when my cheesecake is ready?
Give it a gentle wobble. If it jiggles slightly in the center and looks set around the edges, it's ready to chill in the fridge.
Can I substitute the Baileys with another liqueur?
Absolutely! Coffee liqueurs like Kahlúa work beautifully, or you can omit the alcohol altogether for a booze-free treat.
How can I make my cheesecake extra creamy?
Make sure all your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps, and don't overmix to keep the texture light and airy.
Is a water bath necessary for baking cheesecakes?
For this no-bake version, a water bath isn't needed. But for baked cheesecakes, it helps to prevent cracks.
What's the best way to slice my cheesecake cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe it clean after each cut. This ensures neat, picture-perfect slices.