Dulce de Leche Cheesecake

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray and set aside.

2. Make the Crust:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, using the back of a spoon or your fingertips. Ensure the crust is tightly packed.
3. Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
2. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, and beat until well combined and smooth.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
4. Gently fold in the dulce de leche until evenly distributed throughout the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect.

4. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
3. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
4. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for an additional 30 minutes to prevent cracking.
5. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. Once the cheesecake is chilled and set, carefully remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Garnish the top of the cheesecake with whipped cream, drizzle with additional dulce de leche, and sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts, if desired.
3. Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Tips:

• For a smoother cheesecake filling, make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• To prevent cracks on the surface of the cheesecake, avoid overmixing the batter and be sure not to overbake it.
• You can make your own dulce de leche by simmering sweetened condensed milk on the stovetop or using a slow cooker. Alternatively, store-bought dulce de leche works well too.

Enjoy this decadent Dulce de Leche Cheesecake as a delightful ending to any meal or special occasion!