Ingredients
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).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, 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. Make the Cheesecake Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cream soda until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, gently folding to avoid overmixing.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour batter over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
4. Create the Butterscotch Glaze:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together.
- Stir in heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Let cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake for a glossy, magical finish.
5. Decorate the Cheesecake:
- Drizzle extra butterscotch glaze around the edges for a cascading effect.
- Dust with edible gold glitter or sprinkle crushed graham crackers for added texture.
- Add whipped cream dollops and edible stars for an enchanted touch.
Notes
- Storage: Keep refrigerated; best consumed within 3–5 days.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the cheesecake up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the fridge.
- Crack Prevention: Let cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Wizarding World / Fantasy
- Diet: Vegetarian