If you’re dreaming of an indulgent, show-stopping dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, sticky caramel, and silky chocolate, you’ve just found it in this Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe. It’s like all your favorite rich flavors had a delicious party in one slice, with layers that bring together a buttery biscuit base, ooey-gooey caramel, light and fluffy cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate topping. Perfect for special occasions or when you feel like treating yourself, this is a dessert that’s truly worth every bite and guarantees smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the textures and flavors that make Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe so irresistible. From the crunchy base to the smooth cheesecake and rich toppings, these essentials come together perfectly without any fuss.
- Graham cracker or digestive biscuit crumbs (1 1/2 cups): The crispy foundation that adds a subtle sweetness and texture to the cheesecake base.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup for base, 1/2 cup light brown for caramel): Adds warmth and depth to both the base and caramel layers.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted for base, 1/2 cup for caramel): Binds the base and enriches the caramel with creamy smoothness.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup): The secret ingredient that makes the caramel irresistibly gooey and luscious.
- Golden syrup or corn syrup (2 tablespoons): Helps keep the caramel smooth and shiny, adding a subtle buttery flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness, ensuring the caramel layer isn’t overpowering.
- Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, providing that rich, tangy creaminess.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling with a fine texture for smooth blending.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup plus 1/2 cup for chocolate topping): Whipped for lightness in the cheesecake and combined with chocolate for the silky finish.
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (6 oz, chopped): Creates that glossy, decadent chocolate topping that crowns the cheesecake.
- Optional garnishes: Flaked sea salt, gold dust, or chocolate curls for an elegant finishing touch.
How to Make Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by greasing and lining a 9-inch springform pan—this will make releasing your cheesecake a breeze later. Mix the graham cracker or digestive biscuit crumbs with brown sugar and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the base of your pan to create an even crust, then pop it in the fridge to chill for 20 minutes. This chilling helps the butter set, giving the base a nice sturdy bite.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan, combine butter, sweetened condensed milk, light brown sugar, golden syrup, and a pinch of salt. Stir this over medium heat constantly until it thickens and turns a rich golden color—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Pour this warm caramel evenly over the chilled biscuit base, spreading it out gently. Place it back in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the caramel firm up just right.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Now, in a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until silky smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this step is key to getting that light, fluffy texture in the cheesecake. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, keeping as much air as possible. Spread this creamy layer over the now-set caramel base, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the refrigerator again for at least 4 hours or until fully set for that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
Gently heat the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer—be careful not to boil. Pour the hot cream over your chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate and let it sit for about a minute, then stir until the mixture is glossy and smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it evenly over your chilled cheesecake. Smooth it out, then chill for another hour to set the chocolate layer perfectly.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
When your Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe has fully set, carefully remove it from the springform pan. For an extra special touch, garnish with flaked sea salt, a sprinkle of edible gold dust, or delicate chocolate curls. A warm knife will help you cut clean slices to showcase those gorgeous layers.
How to Serve Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of flaked sea salt perfectly contrasts the sweetness and makes each bite pop. Alternatively, edible gold dust elevates the cheesecake with a glamorous shine, making it a stunning centerpiece. Chocolate curls provide texture and extra chocolatey goodness that complement the smooth layers below.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake is so rich it shines on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple fresh berry salad or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to add a refreshing and creamy balance. Fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries add a lovely tartness that cuts through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe on a decorative platter surrounded by additional toffee bits or caramel swirls. For a fun twist, individual servings in clear mini jars allow everyone to admire the layers before diving in. You could also drizzle extra caramel sauce or chocolate on the plates for a restaurant-style flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Using a cake dome or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap ensures the cake stays moist and prevents it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to make this in advance or prevent waste, the Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake cheesecake, reheating isn’t necessary. Serve chilled to retain the perfect creamy texture and enjoy every layer at its best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of biscuit for the base?
Absolutely! Graham crackers or digestive biscuits work best for their flavor and texture, but you could experiment with shortbread or even crushed pretzels for a salty contrast. Just keep in mind the impact on sweetness and texture.
Is it possible to make this cheesecake vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap cream cheese and heavy cream for plant-based alternatives like cashew cream cheese and coconut cream. You’d also need to find dairy-free butter and chocolate. The caramel layer may require modifications, too, since condensed milk is not vegan.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill before serving?
For best results, chill the cheesecake at least 4 hours after adding the cheesecake layer and an additional hour after the chocolate topping. This ensures all layers are properly set for clean slicing and the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can I make this recipe in advance for a party?
Definitely! The Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe is fantastic for making ahead. In fact, chilling overnight allows the flavors to marry beautifully. Just make sure to keep it tightly covered in the fridge until serving.
What’s the best way to cut the cheesecake?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps cut through the chocolate and cheesecake layers without cracking or dragging, giving you clean, elegant slices every time.
Final Thoughts
This Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe is truly one of those desserts that brings joy with every bite—rich, creamy, and layered with the kind of flavors you’ll want to recreate again and again. It’s perfect for celebrations or when you just want to spoil yourself and loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, this will quickly become a favorite go-to dessert to impress and delight anyone lucky enough to share it with you.
Print
Millionaire’s Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: British-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Millionaire’s Cheesecake is a decadent layered dessert combining a crunchy graham cracker base, rich caramel, creamy cheesecake, and a luscious chocolate topping. This no-bake British-American classic is perfect for special occasions, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors with a smooth, velvety filling, sticky caramel, and glossy chocolate finish.
Ingredients
For the base:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker or digestive biscuit crumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the caramel layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup or corn syrup
- Pinch of salt
For the cheesecake layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the chocolate topping:
- 6 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Optional garnish:
- Flaked sea salt
- Gold dust
- Chocolate curls
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Grease and line the base of a 9-inch springform pan. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker or digestive biscuit crumbs, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes to set.
- Make the caramel layer: In a medium saucepan, combine unsalted butter, sweetened condensed milk, light brown sugar, golden syrup (or corn syrup), and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Pour the hot caramel evenly over the chilled crust and spread it out smoothly. Refrigerate the pan for at least 30 minutes to allow the caramel layer to firm up.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Spread this cheesecake layer evenly over the set caramel layer, smoothing the top with a spatula. Chill the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
- Make the chocolate topping: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it begins to simmer (do not boil). Pour the hot cream over the chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate and let it sit for one minute to melt the chocolate. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it evenly over the set cheesecake layer. Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to let the chocolate topping set.
- Serve and garnish: Once fully set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. For clean slices, use a warm knife to cut through the rich layers. Garnish the top with flaked sea salt, edible gold dust, or chocolate curls just before serving to add an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Use a warm knife when slicing to achieve smooth, clean edges.
- Due to its richness, serve small slices as a dessert portion.
- This cheesecake can be made a day ahead and stored chilled in the refrigerator to enhance flavors.
- If golden syrup or corn syrup is unavailable, light honey can be substituted but may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
