Directions:
1. **Preheat:** Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
2. **Make Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
3. **Make Cheesecake Filling:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream, bourbon, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. **Bake Cheesecake:** Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are slightly puffed. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
5. **Make Bourbon Caramel Sauce:** In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to high and cook without stirring until the mixture turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream, bourbon, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Let the caramel sauce cool to room temperature.
6. **Topping** Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Pour the bourbon caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
7. **Serve:** Slice and serve the Bourbon Caramel Cheesecake chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the rich, creamy cheesecake with the sweet and salty flavors of caramel in every bite! 🍰
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