Caramel Cheesecake Ice Cream Dessert

Why You’ll Love Caramel Cheesecake Ice Cream Dessert Recipe

This Caramel Cheesecake Ice Cream Dessert is everything you want in a sweet treat. The rich cheesecake ice cream base is creamy and smooth, with a tangy twist from the sour cream and a luscious caramel flavor. Paired with the crunchy graham cracker crust, the texture and flavor are perfectly balanced. The caramel drizzle and toppings elevate the dessert to new heights of indulgence, making it an irresistible, memorable dessert for any occasion. It’s also a fun make-ahead treat that’s perfect for serving a crowd!

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Ice Cream Base:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1½ tsp vanilla extract

• 1½ cups heavy cream (cold)

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 6 tbsp melted butter

For the Caramel Drizzle:

• ½ cup caramel sauce

• 2 tbsp heavy cream (to thin, if needed)

For Topping:

• 1–2 scoops vanilla ice cream

• Crushed toffee or chocolate-covered caramel bits

• Caramel sauce (again—more is more!)

• Optional: a pretzel stick or cinnamon stick

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Crust:

• Mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.

• Press the mixture into the base of mini cake rings, ramekins, or a lined springform pan.

• Freeze the crust while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Ice Cream Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

• Add sour cream and caramel sauce, mixing well to combine.

• In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.

3. Assemble:

• Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the chilled crusts.

• Smooth the tops and freeze for 6–8 hours or until the cheesecake filling is firm.

4. Garnish & Serve:

• Before serving, unmold the individual servings and top each with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.

• Sprinkle crushed toffee bits or pecans on top.

• Optionally, garnish with a pretzel stick or cinnamon stick for added flair.

• Serve immediately while the ice cream is still melty and drippy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Freezing time: 6-8 hours

• Total time: 6-8 hours 20 minutes (including freezing)

Variations

• Add fruit: Add fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries as a topping for a fruity contrast to the sweet and salty caramel flavor.

• Switch up the crust: Try using chocolate graham crackers, Oreos, or even crushed pretzels for a unique twist on the crust.

• Use different ice cream flavors: Swap the vanilla ice cream for caramel, chocolate, or even coffee ice cream for a variety of flavors.

• Make it nutty: Fold crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cheesecake ice cream base for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. Make sure to cover them well to prevent freezer burn.

• Reheating: This dessert is best served frozen, but if you’d like to soften it slightly before serving, leave it out at room temperature for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience, but homemade caramel sauce will add a richer, more personalized flavor.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead! Freeze it for 6-8 hours, or even overnight, and it will be ready to serve when you need it.

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the filling?

While heavy cream provides the best texture and richness for the filling, you can substitute it with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, though it will slightly change the flavor.

Can I skip the sour cream in the filling?

The sour cream adds a tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the caramel, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with more cream cheese or omit it altogether.

How can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free cookie to make the crust.

Can I use a different type of ice cream for the topping?

Yes, you can use any ice cream flavor you like for the topping—chocolate, coffee, or even a caramel swirl would complement the caramel cheesecake ice cream base beautifully.

Can I make this dessert in a single large pan?

Yes, you can assemble this dessert in a large springform pan instead of individual portions. Just adjust the freezing time accordingly, and ensure it’s firm before serving.

How long can I store the Caramel Cheesecake Ice Cream Dessert?

It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 weeks when stored properly in the freezer.

Can I make a dairy-free version of this dessert?

Yes, you can substitute the dairy ingredients with dairy-free alternatives, like coconut milk, coconut cream, and non-dairy ice cream, for a dairy-free version of this dessert.

Can I add chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling?

Yes! You can mix in some mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for a sweet addition to the cheesecake filling.

Conclusion

The Caramel Cheesecake Ice Cream Dessert is the perfect treat for anyone who loves a rich, creamy dessert with a balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy textures. It’s an easy yet impressive dessert to make ahead, and the caramel drizzle, toffee bits, and vanilla ice cream make it truly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a celebration or as an indulgent treat for yourself, this frozen dessert will not disappoint. Enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite!

Caramel Cheesecake Ice Cream Dessert

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Caramel Cheesecake Ice Cream Dessert combines frozen cheesecake ice cream with a sweet and salty graham cracker crust and a rich caramel drizzle. Topped with vanilla ice cream, crushed toffee, and caramel sauce, it’s a creamy, decadent dessert that will satisfy all your sweet cravings. A perfect treat for any occasion!

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes – 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Chill
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• For the Cheesecake Ice Cream Base:
• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1½ cups heavy cream (cold)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• For the Crust:
• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 6 tbsp melted butter
• For the Caramel Drizzle:
• ½ cup caramel sauce
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (to thin, if needed)
• For Topping:
• 1–2 scoops vanilla ice cream
• Crushed toffee or chocolate-covered caramel bits
• Caramel sauce (again—more is more!)
• Optional: a pretzel stick or cinnamon stick for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Make the Crust:
• In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
• Press the mixture into the base of mini cake rings, ramekins, or a lined springform pan to form a crust.
• Freeze the crust while you prepare the filling.
• Make the Cheesecake Ice Cream Filling:
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
• Add sour cream and caramel sauce, mixing until fully incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
• Assemble:
• Spoon or pipe the cheesecake ice cream filling over the chilled crusts.
• Smooth the tops with a spatula and freeze for 6–8 hours, or until firm.
• Garnish & Serve:
• Before serving, unmold the desserts if using a springform pan or ring molds.
• Top each portion with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
• Sprinkle crushed toffee or chocolate-covered caramel bits on top for extra crunch.
• Optionally, garnish with a pretzel stick or cinnamon stick for a fun touch.
• Serve immediately while the ice cream is still melty and drippy!

Notes

• For extra flavor, use homemade caramel sauce for a richer taste.
• If you prefer a more indulgent topping, consider adding crushed nuts, such as pecans, alongside the toffee bits.
• This dessert is best served soon after topping to enjoy the contrast between the warm caramel and cold ice cream.