Turtles Cheesecake

Servings: 16 Difficulty: Advanced
A rich, creamy cheesecake layered with gooey caramel, toasted pecans, and semisweet chocolate chips.
Turtles Cheesecake recipe image

Turtles Cheesecake

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 16 Calories: 531.9

Description

Indulge in the decadent flavors of this Turtles Cheesecake, a dessert that perfectly captures the classic candy bar experience in a sophisticated baked form. The recipe begins with a buttery vanilla wafer crust that provides a sturdy, sweet foundation. Inside, a velvety cream cheese filling is studded with semisweet chocolate chips and swirled with a homemade caramel sauce made from evaporated milk and caramel candies. Crunchy toasted pecans are layered throughout, adding a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, rich filling. This dessert is ideal for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you crave a luxurious treat. It requires chilling overnight to set properly, making it perfect for make-ahead entertaining. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs and melted butter; mix well until crumbs are evenly moistened.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and 2 inches up the sides of a 10-inch springform pan.
  4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until set. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
  5. In a saucepan over low heat, melt caramel candies in evaporated milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
  6. Remove caramel mixture from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
  7. Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
  8. Spread 1 1/2 cups of the chopped pecans over the caramel layer.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  10. Add sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese; mix well until combined.
  11. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until just incorporated.
  12. Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  13. Carefully spread the cheesecake filling over the pecan layer.
  14. Bake at 350 degrees F (177C) for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the filling is almost set (center may still jiggle slightly).
  15. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
  16. Refrigerate overnight to chill completely and set.
  17. Before serving, garnish with remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans and whipped cream if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 16


Amount Per Serving
Calories 531.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 21.9g34%
Saturated Fat 6.8g34%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 317.1mg14%
Total Carbohydrate 75.9g26%
Dietary Fiber 39.6g159%
Sugars 14.4g
Protein 14.5g29%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before beating to avoid lumps in the filling.

Do not overbeat the eggs into the batter, as this can incorporate too much air and cause the cheesecake to crack.

For best results, use a springform pan to allow for easy removal of the finished cheesecake.

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

You can substitute store-bought caramel sauce for the homemade version if short on time.

Keywords: cheesecake, turtles, caramel, pecans, chocolate, dessert, cream cheese, vanilla wafers, baking, holiday treat, rich, indulgent, make-ahead, sweet, chocolate chips, evaporated milk, springform pan, chilled, layered, toasted nuts
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