Preheat oven to 325 if using a silver 9-inch spring-form pan or to 300 if using a dark nonstick spring-form pan
Mix crumbs and butter press firmly onto bottom and 2-inches up side of pan Place caramels and milk in small microwavable bowl
Microwave on High 3 minutes or until caramels are completely melted stirring after each minute
Stir in pecans
Pour half of the caramel mixture for later use
Beat cream cheese sugar and vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended Add eggs 1 at a time mixing on low speed after each addition just until blended