Description
Indulge in this delightful Vampire Bite Red Velvet Cheesecake with Caramel and Pecans, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel sauce)
- 6 tablespoons butter (for caramel sauce)
- ½ cup heavy cream (for caramel sauce)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel sauce)
- A pinch of salt (for caramel sauce)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (for topping)
- Additional caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add in the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, cocoa powder, food coloring, lemon juice, and beat until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour.
- Combine the granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it melts and turns golden-brown.
- Add the butter and heavy cream carefully, stirring until combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then let it cool.
- Drizzle the cooled cheesecake with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
- Slice the cheesecake using a sharp knife and serve each piece drizzled with extra caramel and a sprinkle of pecans.
Notes
Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling mix. You can wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil and bake it in a larger pan filled with hot water to prevent cracking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
