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Spider Web Cheesecake

This playful spider web cheesecake features a creamy, rich filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust. The top is decorated with a glossy web pattern made from chocolate or caramel, creating a striking and fun dessert that combines smooth textures with decorative flair. Perfect for parties or a weekend treat that’s as visually impressive as it is delicious.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 24 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar for filling
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate or caramel for web melted, for decorating

Equipment

  • Springform pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Toothpick or skewer
  • Oven thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes and fill your kitchen with a rich, tangy aroma.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to incorporate fully. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the filling is silky and uniform.
  4. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Place the springform pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
  5. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
  6. Once chilled, spread the melted chocolate or caramel over the top of the cheesecake in concentric circles. Use a toothpick or skewer to drag from the center outward, creating the web pattern. Let the web set for about 15 minutes.
  7. Gently wipe any excess drips or smudges from the web pattern with a damp paper towel for a clean, glossy finish. Slice and serve the cheesecake chilled, marveling at its web-like appearance and creamy texture.

Notes

For a more defined web, ensure the topping is slightly cooled before drawing the pattern. Use high-quality melted chocolate or caramel for best visual effect. Refrigerate the decorated cheesecake for at least 30 minutes before serving to help set the web pattern.