Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/4 cups Nilla wafer crumbs
4 tablespoons butter, melted
4 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Filling:
24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (three 8 oz packages)
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons flour
4 eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup milk, divided
1 cup butterscotch chips
3.4 ounces package dry Butterscotch pudding mix
For the Topping:
1 1/2 cups butterscotch chips
4 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream
Directions:
Preparing the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine Nilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool. Wrap the exterior of the pan with foil in preparation for a water bath.
Creating the Filling: Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (149°C). In a large mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, sugar, and flour until smooth. Incorporate the eggs two at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. Melt the butterscotch chips with 1/2 cup of milk. Once melted, whisk in the butterscotch pudding mix and the remaining milk until smooth. Combine this butterscotch mixture with the cream cheese mixture, pour into the prepared crust, and bake in a water bath for 1 hour and 30-35 minutes, or until set.
Adding the Topping: After the cheesecake has cooled, prepare the topping by melting the butterscotch chips with heavy cream until smooth. Pour this over the cooled cheesecake. Feel free to sprinkle extra butterscotch chips on top for added crunch and flavor.
Final Touches: Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before serving. This not only helps it set but also enhances the flavors.
Recipe Notes:
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information: Approximately 288 kcal per slice
Servings: 12-14 slices
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Water Bath: A water bath helps to cook the cheesecake gently and evenly, preventing cracks. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and fill it with hot water about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until each ingredient is incorporated. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks as the cheesecake bakes and cools.
- Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar for an hour before transferring it to the fridge. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracking.
- Chilling: For best results, chill the cheesecake overnight. This ensures it is fully set and develops the best texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Salted Caramel Butterscotch Cheesecake: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cooled cheesecake along with the butterscotch topping for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chocolate Ganache Layer: Before adding the butterscotch topping, spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache over the cooled cheesecake. This adds a rich chocolate layer that complements the butterscotch beautifully.
- Nutty Crust: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the Nilla wafer crust for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Butterscotch Sauce: Offer extra butterscotch sauce on the side for those who want a more indulgent experience.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair this rich dessert with a strong cup of coffee or a light tea to balance the sweetness.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerating: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freezing: This cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the chilled cheesecake (without the topping) on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Wrap in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the topping and serving.
Troubleshooting:
- Cracks: If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry. The butterscotch topping will cover most imperfections.
- Too Soft: If the cheesecake seems too soft, allow it to chill in the refrigerator longer. If it’s still soft, it may have needed more baking time.
Pairing with Beverages:
Creating the perfect beverage pairing can elevate the dining experience, especially with a dessert as rich and flavorful as this butterscotch cheesecake. Here are some suggestions to complement the sweetness and complexity of the dessert:
- Dessert Wines: Choose a sweet dessert wine such as a Riesling, Moscato, or a late harvest wine. These wines have the sweetness and acidity to balance the richness of the cheesecake.
- Coffee and Espresso: A freshly brewed black coffee or a strong espresso can provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake, enhancing its flavors without overpowering them.
- Port Wine: A glass of Tawny Port, with its nutty and caramel notes, pairs beautifully with the butterscotch flavors in the cheesecake.
- Whiskey or Bourbon: For a more spirited pairing, a smooth whiskey or bourbon can complement the butterscotch’s caramelized sugar notes. Opt for a drink with a hint of sweetness to match the dessert’s profile.
Decorating Tips:
Presentation is key when serving a showstopper dessert like this butterscotch cheesecake. Here are a few decorating tips to make your cheesecake not only delicious but also visually appealing:
- Edible Flowers: Garnish the cheesecake with edible flowers for a touch of elegance. Make sure the flowers are pesticide-free and intended for culinary use.
- Butterscotch Drizzle: Use a spoon or a piping bag to artistically drizzle butterscotch sauce over the cheesecake and onto the plate for serving.
- Whipped Cream Rosettes: Pipe whipped cream rosettes around the edge of the cheesecake for a classic and stylish finish.
- Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and a nutty contrast to the sweetness.
Making It Your Own:
Encouraging home bakers to add their personal touch can turn this recipe into a versatile canvas for creativity. Here are a few ideas:
- Customize the Crust: Experiment with different types of cookies for the crust, such as gingersnaps or chocolate wafers, to introduce new flavors.
- Mix-In Magic: Stir chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or toffee bits into the filling before baking for added texture and flavor surprises with every bite.
- Layered Cheesecake: For an even more decadent dessert, consider creating layers within the cheesecake by adding a layer of ganache or caramel sauce in the middle of the filling before baking.
Celebrating with Cheesecake:
Finally, cheesecake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration in every slice. Here are a few occasions where this butterscotch cheesecake can shine:
- Holiday Gatherings: Serve this cheesecake as a luxurious finish to a holiday meal, making any occasion feel extra special.
- Birthday Celebrations: Offer to make this cheesecake as a birthday cake for friends and family who prefer something less traditional.
- Just Because: Sometimes, the best reason to make a cheesecake is no reason at all. Surprise someone you love with this sweet treat just because.