Description
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake blends tart, cinnamon-spiced apples with rich, creamy cheesecake and a luscious caramel drizzle. It offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, capturing the cozy essence of autumn while remaining enjoyable year-round. Easy to make yet impressive in taste and appearance, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or comforting nights in.
Ingredients
																
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			Crust Base
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Apple Filling
- 3 cups fresh apples (peeled, diced; preferably Granny Smith or similar tart variety)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup caramel sauce (good quality store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to set the crust. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Cook the apples: In a saucepan, sauté peeled and diced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over medium heat. Cook until apples are softened but still hold their shape, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let the spiced apples cool completely before using.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined and silky, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Assemble and bake: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the baked crust. Evenly distribute the cooled cooked apples over this layer. Carefully pour the remaining cheesecake filling on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
- Chill and caramelize: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully. Just before serving, generously drizzle caramel sauce over the top.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Do not overbake; the center should still have a slight wobble to keep it creamy.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
- Cool the cheesecake gradually by leaving the oven door slightly open after baking.
- Use a good-quality caramel sauce or prepare your own for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake, autumn dessert, creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, caramel drizzle, easy cheesecake
