Millionaire’s Cheesecake – crispysavors.com

Millionaire’s Cheesecake is a decadent, layered dessert that combines the best of two worlds: the indulgence of a classic cheesecake and the luxurious flavors of millionaire’s shortbread. This masterpiece features a buttery biscuit base, a rich caramel layer, a velvety cheesecake filling, and a glossy chocolate topping. It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or anytime you want to treat yourself (or your loved ones) to something extraordinary.

Each bite of Millionaire’s Cheesecake is a blend of creamy, sweet, and slightly salty layers, with just the right amount of crunch from the biscuit base. While it looks impressive, this dessert is surprisingly simple to make, requiring no baking for the cheesecake itself. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a luxurious dessert that lives up to its name.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Luxurious and Decadent: The layers of caramel, creamy cheesecake, and chocolate are indulgent and rich, making it a dessert worthy of any celebration.
No-Bake Cheesecake: The cheesecake layer is no-bake, making it a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Customizable Layers: Each layer can be adjusted to suit your preferences, from the biscuit base to the chocolate topping.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance, this cheesecake needs time to set, making it an ideal dessert for entertaining.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep time: 45 minutes
Chilling time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total time: 6 hours 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Serving size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 520
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 36g

Ingredients

For the Biscuit Base:

300g (10.5 oz) digestive biscuits or graham crackers
150g (5.3 oz) unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramel Layer:

1 can (397g/14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter
100g (3.5 oz) soft light brown sugar
2 tbsp golden syrup (or light corn syrup)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

400g (14 oz) cream cheese, softened
250ml (1 cup) heavy cream
100g (3.5 oz) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping:

200g (7 oz) dark or milk chocolate (depending on preference)
100ml (⅓ cup) heavy cream

For Garnish (Optional):

Sea salt flakes
Gold leaf or sprinkles
Shaved chocolate or caramel drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Biscuit Base

Start by crushing the digestive biscuits or graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a resealable plastic bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin, or by pulsing them in a food processor.

Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix in the melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact the base. Refrigerate for 30 minutes while preparing the caramel layer.

2. Make the Caramel Layer

In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and golden syrup. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color (about 8–10 minutes).

Remove the pan from the heat and let the caramel cool slightly. Once it’s warm but not hot, pour it over the chilled biscuit base and spread evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until the caramel is set.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in batches, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the set caramel layer, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set completely.

4. Add the Chocolate Topping

Once the cheesecake layer has set, prepare the chocolate topping. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and heavy cream. Melt the mixture over a double boiler or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth and glossy.

Allow the chocolate mixture to cool slightly, then pour it over the cheesecake layer. Tilt the pan gently to ensure the chocolate covers the surface evenly. Return the pan to the refrigerator for 1–2 hours to set the chocolate topping.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the chocolate topping has set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. For a clean edge, run a warm knife around the inside of the pan before releasing the springform.

Garnish the cheesecake with sea salt flakes, gold leaf, sprinkles, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired. Slice with a sharp knife (cleaning the knife between slices for a neat presentation) and serve chilled.

Ingredient Background

Digestive Biscuits/Graham Crackers

The crumbly biscuit base is the foundation of this cheesecake. Digestive biscuits are a classic choice for their slightly sweet and wheaty flavor, but graham crackers work equally well.

Caramel

The homemade caramel layer is what sets this dessert apart. Made with sweetened condensed milk, butter, and sugar, it’s thick, buttery, and perfectly sweet with a hint of saltiness.

Cream Cheese

Full-fat cream cheese is essential for a rich and creamy cheesecake filling. Make sure it’s softened before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.

Chocolate

For the topping, use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Dark chocolate adds a sophisticated bitterness, while milk chocolate lends a sweeter finish.

Technique Tips

Compact the Base: Press the biscuit base firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together when sliced.
Cook Caramel Slowly: Stir the caramel constantly over medium-low heat to prevent burning and ensure a smooth texture.
Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: Properly whipped cream will give the cheesecake layer its light and airy texture.
Let Layers Set Fully: Allow each layer to chill and set before adding the next to ensure clean, defined layers.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Mini Cheesecakes: Divide the ingredients among individual ramekins or muffin tins for single-serve portions.
Layered Parfaits: Layer the ingredients in clear glasses for a no-pan-required dessert.
Salted Caramel Swirl: Drizzle extra caramel on top of the chocolate layer and use a skewer to create a swirled pattern.

Additional Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese to soften and caramel to cool slightly for easier mixing and layering.
Line the Pan: For easier removal, line the bottom of the springform pan with parchment paper.
Clean Slices: Run a knife under hot water and dry it between cuts for neat slices.

Recipe Variations

Peanut Butter Millionaire’s Cheesecake: Add a layer of peanut butter between the caramel and cheesecake layers, or mix peanut butter into the cheesecake filling.
Nutty Base: Mix chopped nuts, like pecans or hazelnuts, into the biscuit base for added crunch.
Coffee Caramel Cheesecake: Add 1–2 tsp of instant coffee granules to the caramel layer for a coffee-infused twist.
White Chocolate Topping: Swap the dark or milk chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier finish.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

Millionaire’s Cheesecake freezes well, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Storage

Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent the chocolate topping from drying out.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Use reduced-fat cream cheese to lighten up the cheesecake layer.
Dark Chocolate: Opt for 70% dark chocolate for a lower-sugar topping.
Sugar-Free Biscuits: Use sugar-free biscuits or graham crackers for the base to reduce the overall sugar content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Millionaire’s Cheesecake is perfect for special events and gatherings. Serve it as:

A Birthday Dessert: Decorate with candles or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Holiday Showstopper: Garnish with seasonal decorations like crushed candy canes or edible gold dust.
Dinner Party Finale: Pair with coffee or dessert wine for an elegant end to the meal.

Special Equipment

9-inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Saucepan
Offset spatula (optional, for smoothing layers)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, store-bought caramel can be used for convenience. Look for a thick, high-quality caramel sauce to achieve the right consistency.

2. What can I substitute for digestive biscuits?

Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or any plain, slightly sweet biscuits work well as substitutes.

3. How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Cook the caramel over medium-low heat and stir constantly. Be patient, as caramel requires gentle cooking to avoid burning.

4. Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free biscuits or cookies for the base, and ensure that other ingredients, like the condensed milk and chocolate, are gluten-free.

5. What’s the best way to slice the cheesecake?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between slices for clean cuts.

6. Can I use white chocolate for the topping?

Absolutely! White chocolate will add a sweet and creamy contrast to the caramel and cheesecake layers.

7. Why is my cheesecake layer too soft?

Ensure the cheesecake layer chills for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set properly. Whipping the cream to stiff peaks also helps stabilize the filling.

8. Can I add salt to the caramel?

Yes, adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel enhances its flavor and balances the sweetness.

Conclusion

Millionaire’s Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining layers of buttery biscuit, rich caramel, creamy cheesecake, and smooth chocolate. This recipe offers a luxurious experience that’s surprisingly easy to make, and its stunning presentation makes it a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving an over-the-top treat, Millionaire’s Cheesecake is sure to impress. Enjoy every decadent bite of this unforgettable dessert!