Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– ½ cup salted caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
– ½ teaspoon salt
– Flaky sea salt for topping
Equipment Needed
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
– Rubber spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Parchment paper (optional, for easier removal)
– Saucepan (for making caramel if desired)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get started! First, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). I love the smell of the warm air filling my kitchen as it heats up. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking pan to form a crust, so we have a solid base for our cheesecake. Bake this crust for about 10 minutes, just until it’s set and lightly golden. It’s such a comforting scent; I always get a little excited at this stage! (See the next page below to continue steps…)