Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe combines the best of both worlds, merging a creamy cheesecake with the classic flavors of apple pie. With a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of spiced apples, and a rich salted caramel drizzle, this dessert is sure to wow your guests and become a favorite for your Thanksgiving table. Perfect for fall gatherings, it offers a stunning presentation and irresistible taste that will leave everyone coming back for more.
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe combines the best of both worlds, merging a creamy cheesecake with the classic flavors of apple pie. With a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of spiced apples, and a rich salted caramel drizzle, this dessert is sure to wow your guests and become a favorite for your Thanksgiving table. Perfect for fall gatherings, it offers a stunning presentation and irresistible taste that will leave everyone coming back for more.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Salted caramel apple pie cheesecake is a delightful fusion of classic desserts, capturing the essence of both the creamy cheesecake and the warm, spiced apple pie. The richness of the cream cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tart apples, while the buttery graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch. Each bite combines creamy, tart, sweet, and salty flavors, making it difficult to resist. This dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings the cozy flavors of fall right to your table, ideal for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Moreover, the salted caramel is a game-changer. A drizzle of this sweet and salty concoction enhances the overall experience, elevating the cheesecake to a gourmet level. The appeal of this dessert goes beyond taste; its beautiful layers create an impressive presentation that will leave your guests in awe. This cheesecake makes for an inviting centerpiece, perfect for any celebration or holiday dinner. Its aesthetic charm, paired with its mouth-watering flavors, ensures it will earn its place as a family favorite.
A Recipe for All Occasions
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round but is especially fitting for the autumn season. Its rich flavors resonate well with festive occasions like Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving brunch, or holiday gatherings. Guests are bound to rave about this unique dessert, making it a great dish to impress your friends and family. It's an exceptional way to adapt traditional flavors and present them in a modern twist that everyone's sure to love.
Not only is it a show-stopping dessert, but this recipe can also be made ahead of time. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a richer taste when served. Simply follow the recipe instructions, and you'll have a delightful dessert ready to go when you are. It’s a stress-free option that allows you to focus on enjoying time with your loved ones while still impressing them with a delicious homemade treat.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the apple filling
- 3 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the caramel sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready!
Instructions
Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the sugar and beat until creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined.
Prepare the apple filling
In another bowl, combine the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Layer the apple mixture on top of the cheesecake filling.
Bake the cheesecake
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. It should be set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
Make the caramel sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assemble the cheesecake
Once the cheesecake has cooled, drizzle the salted caramel sauce on top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Serve chilled and enjoy your cheesecake!
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesecake
Achieving the ideal cheesecake texture starts with proper room temperature ingredients. Ensure that your cream cheese is softened well before mixing to avoid lumps and create a smooth filling. It's also crucial to incorporate the eggs gently into the batter; overmixing can introduce excess air, leading to cracks during the baking process. Keeping your mixer on low speed while adding eggs is a good practice to maintain a creamy consistency.
When it comes to baking your cheesecake, use a water bath to achieve even heat distribution. Placing your springform pan in a larger pan filled with water creates a gentle baking environment, helping prevent cracks. Also, avoid opening the oven door frequently, as drastic temperature changes can affect your cheesecake's appearance and texture.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once prepared, the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator where it can last for up to a week, making it perfect for snacking throughout the week or for any impromptu gatherings. The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop, contributing to a richer taste. If you want to make it last longer, consider freezing individual slices for a quick and satisfying dessert option whenever cravings arise.
When serving, allow the cheesecake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for optimal flavor. Pair it with dollops of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For an added touch, top each slice with additional salted caramel drizzle or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator.
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe combines the best of both worlds, merging a creamy cheesecake with the classic flavors of apple pie. With a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of spiced apples, and a rich salted caramel drizzle, this dessert is sure to wow your guests and become a favorite for your Thanksgiving table. Perfect for fall gatherings, it offers a stunning presentation and irresistible taste that will leave everyone coming back for more.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 10 servings
What You'll Need
For the crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the apple filling
- 3 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the caramel sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the sugar and beat until creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
In another bowl, combine the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Layer the apple mixture on top of the cheesecake filling.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. It should be set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
Once the cheesecake has cooled, drizzle the salted caramel sauce on top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450