Shelly's Recipe

CARAMEL CHEESECAKE

Category: Cheesecake

Cookie Crumb Crust(recipe follows)
72 Kisses milk chocolates filled with caramel, divided
2-1/2 tsp milk
3 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
3 eggs
1 tsp water
Whipped topping

Prepare crumb crust. Heat oven to 350.

Remove wrappers from caramel filled chocolates. Place 56 chocolates and milk in microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at MEDIUM (50%) 30 seconds; stir. If necessary, microwave at MEDIUM an additional 15 seconds at a time, stirring after each heating, until chocolates are melted and smooth when stirred. Gently pour and spread on bottom of prepared crust.

Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla in large bowl until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gently spoon over caramel mixture. Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until almost set. Remove from oven to wire rack. With knife, loosen cake from side of pan. Cool completely, remove side of pan.

Place 4 caramel filled chocolates and water in small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at MEDIUM 30 seconds or until chocolates are melted and smooth when stirred. Drizzle over surface of cheesecake. Cover; refrigerate until chilled. Garnish with whipped topping and remaining chocolates. Cover; refrigerate leftovers. 10 to 12 servings.

Cookie Crumb Crust: Heat oven to 350. Stir together 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer cookie crumbs (about 45 cookies) and 1 tbsp sugar in medium bowl; blend in 1/4 cup melted butter. Press mixture onto bottom and 1/2 inch up side of 9-inch springform pan. Bake 8 minutes; cool.