Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press firmly into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
Carrot Cake Layer
- Whisk together flour, sugars, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, combine egg, oil, and vanilla; add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in grated carrots and walnuts.
- Pour the carrot cake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
Cheesecake Layer
- Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in sour cream and vanilla.
- Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the carrot cake layer in the pan.
Bake and Chill
- Bake the cheesecake for 60-75 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour.
- Remove from oven, run a knife around the edge, and let cool completely on a wire rack before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and garnish with chopped walnuts if desired.
Notes
For best results, ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth and lump-free batter. A water bath can help prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
