Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Butter Pecan Topping:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 cup heavy cream
Directions:
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
Prepare the Butter Pecan Topping:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped pecans and cook, stirring frequently, for about 2-3 minutes until the pecans are toasted and fragrant.
Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the topping cool while preparing the cheesecake.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center should have a slight jiggle when the pan is moved.
Turn off the oven and crack the oven door. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Add the Butter Pecan Topping:
Once the cheesecake is chilled and set, spoon the butter pecan topping over the top, spreading it evenly.
Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the topping to set.