Description
Indulgent caramel apple cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with warm spiced apples and a buttery graham cracker crust, all topped with a decadent caramel drizzle. It’s the perfect dessert for fall gatherings, holidays, or when you want to impress with a showstopping sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the apple topping:
- 2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
For the caramel sauce:
- 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and mix until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time to ensure even incorporation, then add vanilla extract and sour cream. Pour the filling evenly over the baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake in preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly when shaken. After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Prepare the apple topping: While the cheesecake chills, cook the diced apples in a skillet over medium heat with butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are softened and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Assemble and serve: Once the cheesecake is chilled, spoon the cooled spiced apple topping over the top evenly. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure all filling ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith for a flavorful contrast to the sweetness.
- The cheesecake can be prepared a day in advance and topped with apple and caramel just before serving for best freshness.
- Letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- For a thicker caramel drizzle, warm the caramel sauce slightly before drizzling.
