Indulge in the delightful flavors of Caramel Apple Cheesecake—a decadent dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with caramelized apples for a perfect blend of sweet and tangy. This recipe promises to be a showstopper at any gathering or special occasion, bringing together classic flavors in a new and irresistible way.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cheesecake:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- For the Caramel Apples:
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream until incorporated and smooth.
- Prepare the Caramel Apples:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the chilled crust.
- Spread half of the caramel apples evenly over the batter.
- Repeat with the remaining batter and caramel apples.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly cracked for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Make the Caramel Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium-high heat, stirring constantly with a high heat resistant rubber spatula or wooden spoon.
- Once the sugar is melted and turns amber in color, add the butter. Be careful as the mixture will bubble.
- Stir the butter into the caramel until melted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in the salt. Let cool slightly before using.
- Serve:
- Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with additional caramelized apples or whipped cream.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Cream Cheese: Provides the rich and creamy base for the cheesecake filling.
- Apples: Add a sweet and tart flavor profile, complementing the creamy cheesecake.
- Caramel Sauce: Offers a luscious topping that enhances the dessert’s sweetness and adds a luxurious finish.
Enjoy this Caramel Apple Cheesecake with its delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, caramelized apples, and decadent caramel sauce—a dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy any sweet tooth craving!
