Pumpkin Turtle Cheesecake

Directions

1. 1
   Pour chocolate chips and butter into a small saucepan and stir over low heat until melted. This can also be done in the microwave in a microwave safe container.
2. 2
   Remove from heat and stir in graham cracker crumbs. Stir until blended. Press mixture into bottom of cheesecake (springform) pan.
3. 3
   Pour caramel sauce, reserving a few tablespoons, on top of the crust. Sprinkle with pecans. Chill until set.
4. 4
   Blend cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a mixture or using a hand blender on medium speed until well blended. Scrap sides of bowl as needed.
5. 5
   Add eggs, pumpkin and spices and mix until blended.
6. 6
   Pour cream cheese mixture over crust.
7. 7
   Bake at 325F in a water bath for 40 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool to room temperature.
8. 8
   Refrigerate 3 hours or overnight. Drizzle with remaining caramel. You may also sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans.
9. 9
   Serve plain or with whip cream.