Salted Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake Cake

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### **Instructions**

#### Step 1: Make the Cheesecake
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set. Let cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator.

#### Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin).
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely.

#### Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
1. Heat the sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted and amber in color.
2. Add the butter, whisking until combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Let cool.

#### Step 4: Make the Frosting
1. Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with heavy cream, until smooth and fluffy. Mix in vanilla.

#### Step 5: Assemble the Cake
1. Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top.
2. Gently place the cheesecake layer on top. Spread another thin layer of frosting.
3. Add the second chocolate cake layer. Frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
4. Drizzle the cooled salted caramel sauce over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– **Optional Garnishes**: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
– **Pair with Coffee**: The rich flavors of the cake pair beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or espresso.

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### **Tips for Success**

1. **Prepare in Stages**: Make the cheesecake and caramel sauce a day ahead to simplify the process.
2. **Chill Between Layers**: Chill the cake layers before assembly to make stacking easier.
3. **Use Quality Ingredients**: For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder, butter, and vanilla extract.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Salted Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake Cake** is a labor of love that delivers incredible rewards. From its rich, velvety layers to the irresistible drizzle of salted caramel, every bite is pure bliss. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Indulge in the magic of this decadent dessert—it’s worth every moment of effort!