Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a delicious twist on a classic dessert. It’s creamy, dreamy, and packed with the flavors of fall, thanks to the sweet and tart caramel apple topping. I love how the smooth, creamy cheesecake pairs with the warm, cinnamon-spiced apples and gooey caramel. It’s the perfect dessert for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

I first made this cheesecake a few years ago for a Thanksgiving gathering, and it was a huge hit. Everyone raved about the combination of flavors and textures, and it quickly became a requested dessert for all of our family gatherings. Now, I make it every fall, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake

• Flavorful and Festive: This cheesecake is bursting with the flavors of fall, thanks to the delicious caramel apple topping.
• Creamy and Dreamy: The cheesecake filling is perfectly smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner bakers.
• Perfect for Sharing: This cheesecake is great for potlucks, holidays, or any special occasion.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Here’s what I use to make this delicious cheesecake:

Crust:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: I use graham cracker crumbs for the crust, but you can also use gingersnap crumbs or chocolate cookie crumbs.
• Cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy flavor to the crust.
• Melted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients together.

Filling:

• Cream Cheese: I use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the filling.
• Cornstarch: Helps to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.¹
• Caramel Sauce: Adds a rich caramel flavor to the filling.
• Apple Juice: Adds a touch of apple flavor and moisture to the filling.
• Eggs: Help to bind the filling and create a smooth texture.²

Topping:

• Apples: I like to use a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
• Caramel Sauce: For drizzling over the topping and the cheesecake.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the apple topping.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Nutty Crust: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for extra flavor and texture.
• Chocolate Swirl: Swirl some melted chocolate into the cheesecake batter for a decadent twist.
• Spiced Apple Topping: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apple topping for extra warmth.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the cheesecake before serving.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Step 1: Make the Crust

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F and mixing together the graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and melted butter. I press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and bake it for 5 minutes. Then, I reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, I beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Then, I add the caramel sauce, apple juice, and cornstarch and beat until everything is well combined. I beat in the eggs one at a time, just until incorporated.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

I pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust. I wrap the springform pan tightly in foil and place it in a water bath in the oven. I bake the cheesecake at 325°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Then, I turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven for 20 minutes before removing it and letting it cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Topping

While the cheesecake is cooling, I make the caramel apple topping. In a small saucepan, I combine the diced apples, caramel sauce, and cinnamon. I cook this over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the apples begin to soften. Then, I remove the topping from the heat and let it cool.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Once the cheesecake and apple topping have cooled completely, I top the cheesecake with the caramel apple mixture. I drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top, if desired, and then serve.

Tips and Tricks

• Water Bath: The water bath helps to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
• Cooling Time: Allowing the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the topping will prevent the topping from melting.
• Silicone Cover: I recommend using a silicone springform pan cover instead of foil for the water bath to prevent any leaks.

How to Serve

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of richness.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing for cheesecake.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the cheesecake for an extra layer of sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can make the cheesecake a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months.³ Just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
• Storing: Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use a graham cracker crust, a chocolate cookie crust, or even a gingersnap crust.

2. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any type of apple you like, but I prefer a mix of sweet and tart apples.

3. Can I make this cheesecake without a water bath?
I don’t recommend it, as the water bath helps to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.

There you have it! A delicious and easy recipe for Caramel Apple Cheesecake. I hope you enjoy it!

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