Turtle Cheesecake Recipe

Preparation

1. 1

   Make the Crust

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush the chocolate shortbread cookies until fine crumbs form. In a bowl, mix together the crushed cookies and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

2. 2

   Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.

3. 3

   Assemble the Cheesecake

   Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4. 4

   Make the Hazelnut Caramel Sauce

   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns amber. Remove from heat and carefully add in the butter and cream, stirring until smooth. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts.

5. 5

   Serve the Cheesecake

   Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the springform pan. Drizzle the hazelnut caramel sauce over the top. Whip the heavy cream to soft peaks and dollop on top of the cheesecake. Garnish with fresh berries before serving.