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Cheesecake with Coconut Caramel

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This Cheesecake with Coconut Caramel is a decadent dessert that combines a rich chocolate crust, velvety cheesecake, and a Samoa-inspired topping of toasted coconut, caramel, and chocolate drizzle. Perfect for any occasion, this indulgent treat will impress guests with its irresistible flavor and elegant presentation. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit.

 

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Crust Layer:

2 ½ cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (from 26 original OREO cookies)

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled

½ teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Layer:

32 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

4 large eggs, room temperature

½ cup sour cream

3 tablespoons heavy cream

4 to 6 cups boiling water (for the water bath)

For the Samoas Cookie Topping:

2 ¼ cups sweetened shredded coconut

1 cup salted caramel sauce, plus more for garnish

For the Garnish:

Chocolate dessert sauce in a squeeze bottle

Caramel dessert sauce in a squeeze bottle

Whipped topping

Samoa or Coconut Dream cookies

Instructions

  • Prepare the Crust:

    • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

    • In a bowl, combine chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs, melted butter, and salt. Mix until well combined.

    • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use a spoon to press it down firmly.

    • Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the cheesecake layer.

  • Prepare the Cheesecake:

    • Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.

    • Add vanilla extract and mix to combine.

    • Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

    • Add sour cream and heavy cream and mix until smooth.

    • Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

  • Water Bath:

    • Wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water leakage.

    • Place the pan into a large roasting pan and carefully add boiling water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.

    • Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but mostly set.

    • Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.

    • Remove from the water bath and let cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

  • Prepare the Topping:

    • Toast the shredded coconut on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally.

    • Stir the toasted coconut into the salted caramel sauce until well combined.

  • Assemble the Cheesecake:

    • Once the cheesecake has chilled, spread the coconut-caramel mixture evenly over the top.

    • Drizzle chocolate and caramel sauces over the cheesecake using squeeze bottles.

    • Top with whipped topping and garnish with Samoa or Coconut Dream cookies.

Notes

Crust Variations: Swap chocolate sandwich cookies for graham crackers or a nut-based crust for different textures.

Flavor Twist: Add citrus zest like lemon or orange to the cheesecake batter for a refreshing contrast to the richness.

Vegan Option: Use a non-dairy cream cheese substitute, coconut whipped topping, and a plant-based crust.