Butter tart cheesecake. Just saying it makes my taste buds do a little jig! Imagine a creamy, dreamy cheesecake with the signature sweet and sticky flavors of a classic butter tart. This dessert is like a hug for your taste buds, combining two beloved Canadian treats into one unforgettable bite. a classic dessert choice perfect pairing with cheesecake Perfect for family gatherings or just an indulgent night in, this butter tart cheesecake will have everyone begging for seconds.
I remember the first time I tried making this delightful concoction. My kitchen transformed into a sweet-smelling paradise filled with laughter and the occasional flour cloud as I attempted to whip up what would become my new favorite dessert. It turned out to be a hit at my cousin’s wedding, where guests raved about it all night long. The buttery goodness combined with the rich creaminess made it the star of the dessert table, and trust me, that’s saying something! For more inspiration, check out this decadent peanut butter brownies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This butter tart cheesecake is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients
- The flavor profile is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a smooth texture that melts in your mouth
- Its visual appeal is stunning, showcasing a glossy caramel topping over a golden-brown crust
- It’s versatile enough to serve at any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant parties
The first time I served this butter tart cheesecake, everyone was in awe, asking for my secret ingredient! great for festive occasions.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Graham Cracker Crust: A simple mix of crushed graham crackers and melted butter creates the perfect base for your cheesecake.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for that rich and creamy texture; low-fat versions won’t give you the same indulgence.
Sour Cream: Adds a delightful tanginess that balances the sweetness of the filling beautifully.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key! Adjust according to your preference but don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
Eggs: They bind everything together; use large eggs for optimal results.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best; we want to control our salt levels while enhancing flavor.
Brown Sugar: Essential for that deep caramel flavor reminiscent of traditional butter tarts.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the overall flavor profile significantly.
Pecans or Raisins (optional): Traditional additions found in butter tarts; feel free to customize based on your taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Create the Graham Cracker Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until crumbly. Press firmly into a pie plate or springform pan.
Bake the Crust: Place your crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. This step helps set it nicely before adding your filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream, eggs one at a time, brown sugar, and vanilla extract while mixing well after each addition.
Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in pecans or raisins now for an authentic butter tart experience. They add texture and enhance those nostalgic flavors.
Pour Filling into Crust: Carefully pour your luscious filling over the baked crust. Spread evenly using a spatula for that picture-perfect finish.
Bake Your Cheesecake: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 50-60 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven but leave it inside for an hour—this helps prevent cracking!
Let’s be honest: nothing beats digging into this incredible butter tart cheesecake after dinner—especially when topped with that irresistible caramel sauce! For more inspiration, check out this banana bread cookies recipe.
You Must Know
- This butter tart cheesecake is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining creamy cheesecake with the sweet, gooey goodness of butter tarts
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, and the texture is a heavenly balance of smooth and crunchy
- It’s a showstopper for any gathering!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the crust first; while it cools, prepare the cheesecake filling to maximize efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts in the crust or add chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps
- Make sure your crust is fully cooled before adding cheesecake filling
- Let the cheesecake chill overnight for optimal flavor and texture
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my cousin’s wedding where this butter tart cheesecake stole the show, leaving everyone asking for seconds! rich and nutty flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I make this butter tart cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day in advance enhances its flavors and makes serving easier.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Mascarpone or ricotta can be good alternatives if you want a different flavor profile.
How should I serve this dessert?
Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream or caramel drizzle for added indulgence.
Butter Tart Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in this irresistible Butter Tart Cheesecake that beautifully marries two iconic Canadian desserts. With a creamy filling infused with the rich, sweet notes of traditional butter tarts and a buttery graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dessert will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup pecans or raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until crumbly. Press into a pie plate or springform pan.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, one egg at a time, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in pecans or raisins if desired.
- Pour filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 50-60 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven but leave cheesecake inside for an hour to cool.
- Chill overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (105g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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