Irish Cream White Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

How to Make Irish Cream White Chocolate Cheesecake

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Lightly butter a 9-inch springform pan with 2 ¾-inch-high sides.
3. In a food processor, finely grind 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup pecans, and ¼ cup granulated sugar until combined.
4. Add 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) melted unsalted butter and pulse until evenly moistened.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and 2 inches up the sides of the prepared pan.
6. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
7. In a large bowl, beat 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
8. In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, ½ cup Irish cream liqueur, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until just combined.
9. Gradually add the egg mixture to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
10. In a food processor, finely chop 8 ounces white chocolate using on/off turns until finely chopped.
11. Add the chopped white chocolate to the cheese mixture and gently fold to combine.
12. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
13. Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan (this creates a water bath for even baking).
14. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and dry looking, and the center is just set. A slight jiggle in the center is okay.
15. Let the cheesecake cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating.
16. While the cheesecake chills, prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix 8 ounces sour cream and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until smooth.
17. Once the cheesecake is completely cooled, spread the sour cream topping evenly over the top.
18. Grate or shave some extra white chocolate over the top.
19. Arrange chopped pecans around the edges of the cake.
20. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to fully chill and set.