Chocolate-Crusted Vanilla Custard Cheesecake 🍰🍫🍮

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chocolate Base

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and line the bottom of a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, blend the chocolate cookies into fine crumbs.
3. Mix the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
5. Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

2️⃣ Prepare the Vanilla Cream

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sugar and continue to beat until combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just combined.
4. Add the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and flour, mixing gently until smooth and combined.
5. Pour the vanilla cream mixture onto the cooled chocolate crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 15 minutes.
3. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to fully set.

4️⃣ Make the Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden caramel color.
2. Once the sugar is melted, add the butter and stir until fully combined.
3. Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until smooth and thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake.

5️⃣ Serve & Present

1. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, then garnish with fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!
   

   🌟 Tips & Variations