Millionaire’s Cheesecake

Every family celebration at our house isn’t complete without my famous Millionaire’s Cheesecake. I still remember the first time I made it—it was for my best friend’s birthday, and it was a hit! The moment the creamy layers and the luscious caramel sprinkled with chocolate ganache hit the table, I knew this would be a repeat offender at many gatherings. Now, it’s your turn to impress your friends and family with this luxurious dessert!

Why You’ll Love This

Easy to Impress: Though it looks elaborate, this cheesecake isn’t as complicated as it seems.
Decadent Flavor: A delightful blend of caramel and chocolate that pleases every sweet tooth.
Flexible Presentation: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion—dress it up or down!
Make-Ahead: Chill overnight and it’s ready to serve, giving you more time to focus on the special event.
Crowd-Pleaser: A variety of flavors and textures mean there’s something in this cheesecake for everyone to love!

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour (125g): Creates a perfect shortbread base for our luxurious layers.
1 stick butter (114g): Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
1/4 cup white sugar (50g): Sweetens the shortbread to perfection.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors in the shortbread.
3 1/4 cups cream cheese (740g), room temperature: The creamy heart of our cheesecake.
1/2 cup white sugar (100g): Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
3 tablespoons powdered sugar: Adds a silky smoothness to the filling.
1 cup heavy whipping cream (240ml), 33% fat or higher: Adds luscious texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors.
1 cup light brown sugar (200g): Key to our rich caramel topping.
2 sticks butter (227g): Basis for a smooth, creamy caramel.
1/3 cup golden corn syrup (100g): Helps achieve that perfect caramel consistency.
1 can sweetened condensed milk (397g): Adds undeniable richness to the caramel.
1 teaspoon salt: Helps balance the sweetness in the caramel.
1 cup dark chocolate (175g), chopped: Luxury in every bite.
1/2 cup heavy cream (120ml): Adds richness to the chocolate ganache.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Start with the Shortbread Base

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Combine flour, butter, salt, and sugar in a food processor until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Press the dough into the base of a round, loose-bottomed cake pan, lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown, then let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks and set aside. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, white sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Pour over the cooled shortbread base and chill in the fridge while preparing the caramel.

Step 3: Make the Caramel

In a saucepan, melt the brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup over medium heat, allowing the mixture to boil and froth. Stir in condensed milk and salt. Boil for one minute until it thickens. Let caramel cool slightly before reserving 1/4 of it for later decoration. Spread the rest over the cheesecake. Return to the fridge to chill overnight.

Step 4: Chocolate Ganache

Place chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Heat the cream in a saucepan until simmering, then pour over chocolate. Let it sit, then stir until smooth and glossy. Once cool, spread over the chilled cheesecake.

Important Things to Remember

Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight ensures firm layers that slice beautifully.
Caramel Consistency: Keep an eye on the caramel as it should thicken enough to coat a spoon but not become too stiff.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring cream cheese to room temperature for the smoothest filling.
Use Quality Ingredients: Quality chocolate and butter enhance the overall richness.

How to Serve It

For a sophisticated presentation, drizzle the reserved caramel over each slice just before serving. Pair it with a strong espresso or a chilled glass of white wine to balance the dessert’s sweetness.

Making It Your Own

You can switch out the dark chocolate for milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on personal taste. Nut lovers can add a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel for added crunch. For a different twist, try a sprinkle of sea salt on the ganache for a sweet-savory flair.

Keeping and Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, let a slice sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes for the best texture and flavor reemergence.

What I’ve Figured Out

Through countless bakes, I’ve learned that patience is key with Millionaire’s Cheesecake. Allowing each layer to set beautifully yields the best results, and those oh-so-silky chocolate spirals are well worth the wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a ready-made shortbread base?

Sure! Ready-made bases can save time. Just ensure it’s suitable for your cake pan size.

Is it necessary to use golden corn syrup?

While it adds a lovely texture and caramel color, honey or maple syrup may substitute in a pinch.

How can I avoid a runny cheesecake filling?

Ensure your whipping cream is of the correct fat percentage and fully whipped before combining.

What can I use instead of dark chocolate for ganache?

Milk or white chocolate works too, though sweetness levels will vary, so adjust the powdered sugar accordingly.