Ingredients:For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut, toasted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Samoa Topping:
1½ cups shredded sweetened coconut, toasted
1 (14 oz) package soft caramels (or 1½ cups homemade caramel)
2 tablespoons heavy cream (to soften caramels)
1/2 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and toasted coconut.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add sugar and vanilla extract, beat until combined.
3. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
4. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth.
5. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
Bake the Cheesecake:1. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan.
2. Pour hot water into the roasting pan (about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan) for a water bath.
3. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
4. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
5. Remove from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Add the Samoa Topping:1. Toast the shredded coconut for the topping in a dry skillet or oven until golden brown.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramels with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream (about 30–60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds) until smooth.
3. Mix in the toasted coconut and spread this mixture over the chilled cheesecake.
4. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top using a spoon or piping bag.
Serve and Enjoy!Chill for another 30 minutes to set the topping.
Slice and serve. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
