Walnut-Crusted Caramel-Bourbon Swirl Cheesecake

DESCRIPTION

The flavorful walnut crust is a nice complement to this deliciously light cheesecake. Toasted walnut halves are stirred into the caramel bourbon sauce and spooned over the cheesecake just before serving.

Total Time
5 Hrs, 45 Mins
Serves
12
Course
Desserts

Total Time

Prep Time
30 Mins
Cook Time
5 Hrs, 15 Mins
Total Time
5 Hrs, 45 Mins

Nutrition

Calories
670 cal
Total Fat
50 g
Polyunsaturated Fat
20 g
Cholesterol
120 mg
Sodium
260 mg
Carbohydrates
43 g
Dietary Fiber
3 g
Protein
12 g

Ingredients

  • 34 caramel squares
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 3 cups California walnut pieces
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 3 packages light cream cheese
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/3 cup bourbon or amber rum, divided
  • 1 cup toasted California walnut halves

Preparation

  1. In small saucepan over low heat, combine caramels and milk, stirring frequently, until caramels are completely melted and smooth. Set aside.
  2. In food processor, combine walnut pieces and 1/4 cup of the sugar; process until it resembles coarse crumbs (do not over process). Stir in melted butter.
  3. Press mixture into bottom and half way up sides of a 9-inch spring-form pan. Bake in 325°F oven for 15 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, beat cream cheese with remaining 3/4 cup sugar. Add eggs, beating one at a time, just until well blended. Stir in 1/4 cup of the rum or bourbon.
  5. Pour cream cheese mixture into walnut crust. Drizzle 1/3 cup of the caramel sauce on top; gently swirl with knife. Stir remaining bourbon into caramel sauce. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
  6. Bake in 325°F oven for 1 hour. Turn oven off; leaving cheesecake in oven without opening door (to prevent cracking) for an additional hour. Transfer to rack to cool completely. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or up to 1 day.
  7. To serve, gently warm sauce, stirring in walnut halves. Serve over slices of cheesecake.