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Turtle Cheesecake Recipe

With Optional Oreo or Graham Cracker Crust
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time1 hour 25 minutes
Course: Dessert
Keyword: Baking, Cheesecake, Christmas, dessert, Holiday, Thanksgiving, valentine's day
Servings: 16 servings

Ingredients

For the crust (choose one):

Oreo Crust:

  • 12 Oreo cookies 1 cup crushed
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Graham Cracker Crust:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted

For the cheesecake filling:

  • 3 8oz packages cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the turtle topping:

  • ¾ cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
  • ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips melted
  • ¼ cup pecans or walnuts, chopped and toasted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  • For Oreo Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
  • For Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer.
  • Pour 1/2 cup of the caramel sauce onto the crust and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Pour the cheesecake filling over the refrigerated crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the spring-form pan on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy clean up.
  • Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 65–70 minutes, or until the center is set (it may still jiggle slightly, but it should not be liquid). Run a knife around the edge while it's still warm and then let the cheesecake cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight before removing from the pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Turtle Topping

  • Toast the pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and golden brown. Set aside to cool.
  • Melt the chocolate: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
  • Assemble the turtle topping: Once the cheesecake has chilled, Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, followed by the melted chocolate. Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top, creating a beautiful "turtle" topping!
  • Allow the cheesecake to set in the fridge for an additional 30 minutes before serving to let the topping firm up a little. Serve and Enjoy!