Description
A creamy, velvety cheesecake infused with maple syrup and bourbon, topped with a crackly caramelized sugar crust. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Optional: pinch of flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the maple syrup, bourbon, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks and place it in a larger baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top of the cheesecake. Use a blow torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crackly. If using a broiler, place the cheesecake under high heat for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Let the caramelized topping cool for a few minutes before slicing. Optional: sprinkle with flaky sea salt for extra flair.
Notes
[‘Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and other ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling.’, ‘Use a water bath to prevent cracks and keep the cheesecake moist.’, ‘Caramelize the sugar slowly with a blow torch for an even, golden crust.’, ‘Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best flavor and texture.’, ‘Dip a sharp knife in hot water before slicing for clean edges.’]
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Protein: 8
Keywords: Maple, Bourbon, Crème Brûlée, Cheesecake, Dessert, Special Occasion, Holiday Dessert