Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup cream soda
- 3 large eggs
For the Butterscotch Glaze:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Decorations:
- Whipped cream
- Edible gold glitter or sprinkles
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cream soda until fully incorporated.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition (avoid overmixing to prevent cracks).
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour batter over the cooled crust.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water to create a water bath (this helps prevent cracks).
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before adding the glaze.
4. Make the Butterscotch Glaze:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar, stirring constantly.
- Add heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Let cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake for a glossy, magical finish.
5. Decorate & Serve:
- Drizzle extra glaze around the edges for a cascading effect.
- Dust with edible gold glitter or crushed graham crackers for added texture.
- Pipe whipped cream dollops around the edge and sprinkle with edible stars for a truly enchanted touch.
- Slice using a warm knife for clean edges.
Notes
- Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for 3–5 days.
- Make-Ahead: Cheesecake can be made 2 days in advance. Add glaze before serving.
- No Water Bath Alternative: If skipping the water bath, place a pan of hot water on the oven’s lower rack for moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fantasy-Inspired, British-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian