Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake combines the rich creaminess of classic cheesecake with the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples and a luscious salted caramel drizzle. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, tender apple pie topping, and a decadent homemade salted caramel sauce, perfect for festive occasions or an indulgent dessert.
- Author: Joe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Apple Pie Topping
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking during baking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then cool slightly to set the crust.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and mix until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each to incorporate without overbeating. Blend in vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined for a smooth filling.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula for an even finish.
- Water Bath Baking: Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Carefully add hot water to the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the cheesecake’s center is almost set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool Cheesecake: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then remove from oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set.
- Cook Apple Pie Topping: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook while stirring occasionally until apples soften and the mixture becomes syrupy, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Make Salted Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully add cubed butter and stir until melted. Slowly whisk in heavy cream; the mixture will bubble vigorously. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Let caramel cool slightly before use.
- Assemble Final Dessert: Remove the chilled cheesecake from the springform pan. Spread the cooled apple pie topping evenly over the cheesecake surface. Drizzle generously with the prepared salted caramel sauce.
- Serve: Slice and serve the salted caramel apple pie cheesecake chilled for a rich and flavorful dessert.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake batter without lumps.
- Use a water bath during baking to avoid cracking and maintain creamy texture.
- Cool caramel sauce slightly before drizzling to avoid melting the apple topping or cheesecake surface.
- Use firm but ripe apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture in the topping.
- Can be made a day in advance; flavors deepen and set perfectly when chilled overnight.
- To remove cheesecake easily, run a knife around the edges before releasing the springform pan latch.
Keywords: Salted Caramel, Apple Pie, Cheesecake, Dessert, Autumn, Holiday Dessert