Introduction:
Indulge in the ultimate dessert that marries the rich, creamy tang of cheesecake with tender, spiced apples and a luscious caramel drizzle. Perfect for autumn gatherings—or any time you crave a slice of decadence—this Caramel Apple Cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite!
⏱ Prep Time: 30 minutes
🍳 Bake Time: 55–60 minutes
❄️ Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
⏲ Total Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
🍽 Servings: 12 slices
🔥 Calories per Serving: ~450–500 kcal (approx.)
🍎 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 🥣 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 🍬 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 🧈 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Apple Layer:
- 🍏 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 🧈 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 🍬 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 🌿 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 🌰 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 🧀 32 oz (4 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 🍬 1 cup granulated sugar
- 🥚 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 🥛 1/2 cup sour cream
- 🍦 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 🍋 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 🥄 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for added stability)
For the Caramel Topping:
- 🍯 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 🍎 Optional: Extra apple slices or a sprinkle of sea salt for garnish
📝 Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the Apple Layer:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter.
- Add the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the apples are slightly softened but still retain some texture. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and flour (if using) until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cooled apple mixture, reserving a few spoonfuls for topping if desired.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Optionally, drop small dollops of the reserved apple mixture on top and gently swirl for a marbled effect.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes until the edges are set and the center still has a slight wobble.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour.
- Chill:
- Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Add the Caramel Topping:
- Just before serving, drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- For an extra touch, garnish with additional apple slices or a light sprinkle of sea salt.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Slice into 12 generous pieces and savor the harmonious blend of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and velvety caramel!
🤩 Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake:
- Decadent Flavor Combo: The rich, tangy cheesecake perfectly complements the tender, spiced apples and luscious caramel drizzle.
- Fall-Inspired Comfort: Enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn in every bite—ideal for holiday gatherings or a comforting treat any day.
- Homemade Indulgence: A luxurious dessert that’s easier to make than you might think, impressing guests with its homemade charm.
- Versatile Delight: Perfect on its own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
💡 Tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the filling just until combined to keep it light and creamy.
- Apple Texture: Sauté the apples just enough to soften them slightly while preserving some bite for added texture.
- Make Ahead: This cheesecake tastes even better when made a day in advance—the flavors have more time to meld.
- Caramel Variations: Use a homemade caramel sauce for extra richness, or drizzle a bit of sea salt over the caramel for a sweet and salty twist.
Enjoy your Caramel Apple Cheesecake—a sumptuous dessert that brings together the best of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and decadent caramel in every slice!