Classic Vanilla Caramel Cheesecake

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Wrap the outside of a 9" or 10" springform with heavy-duty foil, ensuring the foil extends beyond top of the pan. For ease in removing cheesecake from a springform bottom, put a piece of parchment paper on the bottom before patting in crust.

In a food processor, crush graham crackers and sugar until it resembles crumbs. Stir in the melted butter. Press the crumb mixture onto the bottom and sides of the pan. The crumbs need not reach the top. Freeze crust until needed.

Beat cream cheese and sugar only until no lumps are visible. Add eggs, lemon and vanilla and mix until incorporated, stopping the mixer to scrape down the sides of the bowl if necessary. Add sour cream and mix for one minute longer.

Spread half the dulce de leche over the crumb crust. Pour batter over the caramel.

Put the springform into a large roaster. Pour hot water into the roaster until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform. Bake for 50 to 60 Minutes in the water bath.

Turn off oven and allow cake to rest in warm oven for 45 minutes longer. Remove springform from the roaster and run a spatula or knife around the edge of the cake. Chill thoroughly for 5 to 6 hours. Do not attempt to remove the cake from the pan before it is completely cooled.

When cake is chilled, run a knife around the edge once again and open the buckle. Gently lift ring off the cake.

Melt the remaining dulce de leche. Pour over the top of the cake and chill.