This luscious caramel apple cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tart flavors of caramelized apples. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Caramel Apple Topping:
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside for 1 hour with the door slightly open.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium-high heat. Cook, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color.
- Carefully add the heavy cream and butter, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, arrange the caramelized apples on top.
- Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the apples.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the caramel apple cheesecake. Enjoy!
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that will impress your family and friends with its delicious layers of flavor and beautiful presentation.
