Pecan and Salt Caramel Cheesecake

Sweet Jezebel's Note:

It's just amazing what a little salt does for the flavor of the caramel.

• Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 12

For the crust

• 1 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the cheesecake

• 2 lbs cream cheese
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 3 whole large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the caramel

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
• 1 pinch sea salt

Directions:

1. Heat the oven to 325ºF and arrange the rack in the middle. Butter the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan; set aside. Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined. Evenly press the mixture into the bottom of prepared springform pan; set aside.
2. For the cheesecake:
3. Combine cream cheese and sugar in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle and mix over medium speed until light, airy, and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing completely after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until blended.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the cake comes out clean and the center of the cheesecake is just set, about 40 minutes. Turn off the oven, leave door slightly ajar, and let cheesecake cool completely.
5. For the caramel:
6. Stir together sugar and 1 tablespoon water in a small saucepan. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Let boil until amber in color, about 3 minutes. Immediately add butter and stir to incorporate. Remove from heat, add cream, and mix well. Set aside and let cool to room temperature.
7. Assembly:
8. Pour the caramel over the cooled cheesecake, then scatter the pecan pieces and sea salt over the top.