Bourbon Caramel Swirl Cheesecake

If you love the cozy, slightly spicy flavor of bourbon paired with the sweetness of caramel, this cheesecake is made for you. The bourbon is baked right into the creamy cheesecake filling, adding warmth and depth without being overpowering. Swirls of caramel run through each slice, making it both beautiful and delicious.

This dessert is the kind that turns any gathering into an occasion. It’s rich, elegant, and surprisingly simple to make. No water bath, no stress, just a smooth, silky cheesecake that’s as impressive as it is indulgent. (If you prefer something a little more classic, try my New York cheesecake for a pure, creamy version.)

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Caramel Cheesecake

• A perfect flavor pairing. Bourbon brings warmth and depth that balance the sweetness of caramel beautifully.
• Creamy, velvety texture. Baking low and slow gives you that signature cheesecake smoothness.
• Stunning presentation. Those caramel swirls make every slice picture-perfect.
• Make it ahead. Cheesecake tastes even better after a night in the fridge, so it’s ideal for entertaining.

Key Ingredients

You’ll find the full recipe card below, but let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this cheesecake shine.

• Graham cracker crumbs – A simple, buttery base that complements the rich filling.
• Cream cheese – The star of the show. Use full-fat and room temperature for the best texture.
• Bourbon – Adds a warm, slightly spicy depth that enhances the caramel flavor without tasting overly boozy. It’s subtle but makes a big difference. Choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking.
• Caramel sauce – Swirled throughout the batter for flavor and visual appeal. Use thick, spoonable caramel for the best results. Either homemade or store-bought will work.
• Sour cream – Keeps the texture creamy and adds a touch of tanginess to balance the sweetness.

How to Make Bourbon Caramel Swirl Cheesecake

Prepare the crust.
Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake briefly to set.

Mix the filling.
Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs, bourbon, vanilla, and sour cream until the batter is smooth.

Layer and swirl.
Pour a third of the filling into the crust, drizzle with caramel, and gently swirl with a knife. Repeat twice more to create layers of cheesecake and caramel.

Bake low and slow.
Start at 350°F for 15 minutes, then lower the oven temperature to 200°F and bake for about 2 hours. The edges should look set, but the center will still jiggle slightly.

Cool gradually.
Run a knife around the edge to loosen the cheesecake. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 2 hours before transferring to the refrigerator. Chill at least 8 hours or overnight.

Serve.
Slice and drizzle with a little more caramel, toasted nuts, or other garnishes before serving, if you’d like.

Simple Variations

• Salted caramel swirl: Use salted caramel for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Bourbon vanilla: Skip the caramel and add an extra splash of bourbon and vanilla for a simpler but equally delicious variation.
• Nutty topping: Sprinkle toasted pecans over the top before serving for a little crunch.
• Serving suggestions: Drizzle extra caramel over each slice or add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty finish. A dollop of sweetened whipped cream on the side makes it even more indulgent.

How to Store

Refrigerate: Cover and chill up to 5 days.

Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Make ahead: Chill at least 8 hours, but up to 2 days ahead of serving. The flavor and texture only get better. If you’re adding any toppings, wait to do that until just before serving.

A Sweet Finish with a Bourbon Twist

There’s something special about this cheesecake. It’s classic comfort with just the right touch of indulgence. The creamy texture, the ribbons of caramel, and that hint of bourbon come together in perfect balance. Whether you’re serving it for the holidays, a dinner party, or just because, this bourbon caramel swirl cheesecake is a dessert that always feels a little extra — in the best possible way.