Perfect for the holidays, this deliciously rich cheesecake topped with creamy caramel, crunchy pecans and a wafer crust will be the rave of the party. 

Caramel Cheesecake

Crust

46 crushed wafers

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup butter, melted

16-18 whole vanilla wafers for side of form

Filling

3 8oz. packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs, lightly whisked

Topping

26 caramels

2 tablespoons milk

1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 325°.

2. Crust: Mix crushed wafers and sugar then stir in melted butter. Press wafer mix onto bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.

3. Arrange whole vanilla wafers around sides of pan.

4. Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Next, beat in sour cream and vanilla. Add lightly whisked eggs; beat on low speed just until blended. Pour over crust. Place pan on a baking sheet.

5. Bake until center is nearly set, 55-60 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Refrigerate overnight, covering when completely cooled.

6. Topping: In a microwave, melt caramels with milk; stir until smooth. Drizzle over cheesecake; sprinkle with pecans.

To freeze cheesecake, wrap individual portions of cheesecake in plastic wrap and place in a resealable plastic freezer bag. Seal bag and freeze. To use, thaw in the refrigerator.

Recipe adapted from Taste of Home.