Description

Fall is the season of warm hues, cozy sweaters, and, of course, the delightful aroma of freshly baked treats. What better way to embrace the spirit of autumn than with a heavenly dessert like Caramel Apple Cheesecake? This recipe combines the richness of creamy cheesecake with the irresistible flavors of caramel and apple, making it a perfect indulgence for any gathering or cozy night in.

Ingredients

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

Your favorite recipe or store-bought

For the Crust:

2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramel Cheesecake:

24 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup salted caramel sauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup sour cream, at room temperature
3 large eggs, at room temperature

For the Cinnamon Apple Topping:

3 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons water
¼ cup white sugar
¼ cup salted caramel sauce

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and wrap a 9-inch springform pan with aluminum foil.
Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool.
Make the Caramel Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, salted caramel sauce, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Mix in sour cream until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Create a water bath for baking: Place the springform pan into a larger baking pan. Carefully pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Prepare the Cinnamon Apple Topping: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced apples, cinnamon, white sugar, and water. Cook until the apples are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in salted caramel sauce until the apples are coated evenly.
Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 30 minutes. Then, remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator to chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Before serving, top the chilled cheesecake with the cinnamon apple mixture, spreading it evenly over the surface.
Slice, serve, and enjoy the heavenly combination of caramel, apple, and creamy cheesecake!

Notes

Serving Tips:

Slice with a Warm Knife: Before slicing the cheesecake, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it dry. This will help create clean, neat slices without sticking to the knife.
Garnish Creatively: Enhance the presentation of your Caramel Apple Cheesecake by adding a drizzle of additional salted caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on each slice. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or chopped nuts for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Pair with Beverages: Serve this decadent dessert alongside hot beverages like coffee, tea, or spiced cider for a delightful autumnal experience. The warm flavors of the cheesecake complement the comforting warmth of these drinks perfectly.
Offer Variety: For a festive dessert spread, consider serving the cheesecake alongside other fall-themed treats such as pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or cinnamon rolls. This allows your guests to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures.
Serve Chilled: For the best taste and texture, serve the cheesecake chilled. Remove it from the refrigerator just before serving to ensure it stays firm and creamy.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate Properly: Store any leftover Caramel Apple Cheesecake in an airtight container or cover the springform pan with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator, where it can be stored for up to 3-4 days.
Avoid Freezing Toppings: While the cheesecake itself can be frozen for longer storage, it’s best to avoid freezing any toppings or garnishes. Prepare and add the cinnamon apple topping fresh before serving for optimal taste and texture.
Freeze for Longer Storage: If you need to store the cheesecake for an extended period, it can be frozen. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
Thaw Properly: When ready to enjoy frozen cheesecake, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can cause condensation and compromise the texture of the cheesecake.
Refrigerate Individual Slices: If you prefer to freeze individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. This allows you to thaw and enjoy single servings as needed, without having to thaw the entire cheesecake.