Description
This Genius Salted Caramel Dessert combines a rich homemade salted caramel sauce with a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy cream cheese topping. It’s a no-bake, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors. Ideal for gatherings or a special indulgence, this dessert is sure to impress with its luscious texture and decadent taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
Optional Topping
- Additional caramel sauce
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Make the Salted Caramel Sauce: Heat the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns into a smooth golden liquid. Carefully add the butter pieces and stir until fully melted and combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously—it will bubble up. Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute to thicken, then remove the pan from heat and stir in the sea salt. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan or into individual serving cups, forming an even crust layer.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Then pour the cooled salted caramel sauce over the top and gently spread it to cover the surface.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and flavors to meld. Before serving, optionally drizzle with more caramel sauce and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Store-bought caramel sauce can be used if short on time, but homemade caramel provides a richer, more authentic flavor.
- For added texture and contrast, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or crushed pretzels on top before serving.
- Ensure the caramel sauce is fully cooled before assembling to prevent melting the cream cheese layer.
- Use a 9×9-inch pan for easy slicing into 9 servings, or use individual cups for elegant presentation.
