• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

For Cheesecake:

• Prepare an 8-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper and locking the sides over it.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Firmly pack this mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to create the crust.
• Place the crust in the oven and bake for 4-5 minutes. Allow it to cool in the refrigerator afterward.
• Using a mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it’s smooth.
• Incrementally add the granulated sugar while increasing the mixer speed until well combined.
• Decrease the speed and incorporate the sour cream until blended.
• Add each egg individually, mixing on low until they are fully integrated. Finish by adding the vanilla extract and mixing briefly.
• Gradually mix in the heavy cream until the mixture is completely smooth.
• Pour the cheesecake batter onto the cooled crust in the springform pan.
• For a creamier texture, wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with boiling water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking at 45 minutes if not using a water bath. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
• Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open. Let the cheesecake cool for an hour inside the oven, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight.

For Caramel:

• While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the bacon until it's crisp, then chop it into small pieces.
• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and sugar, stirring until it begins to bubble.
• Remove the mixture from the heat and mix in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well blended. Allow it to cool slightly.
• Once the cheesecake is chilled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
• Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits evenly across the caramel layer.
• Cut into slices and serve! Relish in the delicious blend of creamy cheesecake, decadent caramel, and crunchy bacon.