Chocolate-Crusted Vanilla Custard Cheesecake

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blackberries, etc.) 🍓
• Powdered sugar 🍬

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chocolate Base

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, blend the cookies until finely ground.
3. Mix the crushed cookies with the melted butter until combined.
4. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan, creating an even layer.
5. Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes, then let it cool completely before adding the filling.

2️⃣ Prepare the Vanilla Cream

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, on low speed, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and flour until just combined.
5. Pour the cream mixture onto the cooled chocolate crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should still be slightly jiggly when you tap the pan.
2. Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake cool for 15 minutes inside the oven.
3. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.

4️⃣ Prepare the Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a rich amber color.
2. Add the butter and stir until melted and combined.
3. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and shiny.
4. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake.

5️⃣ Serve & Decorate

• Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
• Pour the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
• Garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
• Slice and serve chilled for the perfect balance of creamy, rich, and sweet flavors.

🌟 Tips & Variations