Custard Cheesecake with Hazelnuts and Caramel is the ultimate dessert for cheesecake lovers! This luxurious cheesecake features a creamy filling enriched with custard, a buttery biscuit crust, and a delightful topping of toasted hazelnuts and homemade caramel sauce.
Enough talk, let’s get cooking.
Here’s what you will need and how to make luxurious cheesecake Custard Cheesecake with Hazelnuts and Caramel.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups digestive biscuits (or graham crackers), crushed
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¾ cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup custard (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup heavy cream
For the Hazelnut Topping:
- ½ cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Directions
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the crushed biscuits, melted butter, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and custard, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the heavy cream, beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Make the Hazelnut Topping
- In a small pan, toast the hazelnuts over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until golden brown.
- Let them cool, then chop them roughly.
- Toss the chopped hazelnuts with sugar until well coated.
Step 5: Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of sugar over medium heat, swirling occasionally until it turns golden brown.
- Carefully add 4 tablespoons of butter (it will bubble), stirring until melted.
- Slowly pour in ½ cup of heavy cream while stirring constantly until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the caramel simmer for a couple of minutes until thickened, then remove from heat.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Once fully chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake.
- Sprinkle with toasted hazelnuts.
Step 7: Serve
Slice and serve this indulgent cheesecake with a cup of coffee or tea for an exquisite dessert experience!
Tips for Perfect Custard Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Prevent Cracking: To minimize cracks in your cheesecake, avoid overbaking it; it should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out.
- Chill Time: For best results, chill your cheesecake overnight to allow flavors to meld together.
Variations
You can customize this cheesecake in several ways:
- Flavor Infusions: Add lemon or orange zest to your cheesecake filling for a citrusy twist.
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute hazelnuts with pecans or almonds if desired.
- Fruit Toppings: Top your cheesecake with fresh berries or fruit compote for added freshness.
Custard Cheesecake with Hazelnuts and Caramel is an extraordinary dessert that combines rich flavors and textures into one delightful slice. From its creamy filling to its crunchy topping and luscious caramel drizzle, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Try this recipe today and indulge in this decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
