Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a cinnamon-spiced apple filling and a creamy cheesecake layer. Baked to perfection and finished with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce, this dessert combines autumn flavors with classic cheesecake decadence for a crowd-pleasing treat.
- Author: Caleb
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Cheesecake:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool.
- Make the Apple Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the thinly sliced apples along with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheesecake: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until completely smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure a creamy batter. Stir in the vanilla extract to finish the cheesecake mixture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the baked crust. Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the apple layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula to distribute evenly.
- Bake: Place the assembled cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Cool and Serve: After the cheesecake has rested in the oven, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set. Just before serving, drizzle the top with the caramel sauce for a luscious finishing touch.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor in the filling.
- Ensure the cream cheese is well softened for a smooth cheesecake batter without lumps.
- Letting the cheesecake rest in the oven with the door ajar helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake overnight for optimal firmness and flavor development.
- Warm caramel sauce slightly before drizzling if it has hardened for easier pouring.
Keywords: Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Apple Cheesecake, Fall Dessert, Autumn Recipes, Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce