Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

There’s something truly magical about pulling a Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake out of the oven on a chilly evening. The aroma envelops you like a cozy blanket, blending the sweet scent of caramel and the tartness of cooked apples. It feels like home, like gathering around the table with those you love, laughing and sharing stories with a slice of this delightful dessert in hand. If you’ve been searching for that perfect recipe for a weeknight pick-me-up or a special occasion treat, look no further. This cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the comforting familiarity of apple pie, all dressed in a luxurious salted caramel drizzle.

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Let’s Make It Together

This recipe is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert that feels fancy but comes together quickly enough for a weeknight dinner. Just follow along, and I promise you’ll impress your family and friends!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 cups peeled and sliced apples
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp sea salt

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). The gentle warmth will set the perfect stage for this delightful cheesecake.
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. You want it to have a sandy texture that will hold up nicely in your crust.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a solid base. Bake for 10 minutes and then let it cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, toss together the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. This mixture will give a sweet and warming flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheesecake.
5. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cooled crust, making sure every bite gets that delicious apple flavor.
6. In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy. You’ll want to take your time here; that creamy texture is essential.
7. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is fully incorporated and luxurious.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the apple layer in the pan. It will gently envelop the apples, creating a delightful surprise when you slice into it.
9. Bake your cheesecake for approximately 60-70 minutes, until the center is almost set. The edges should be firm, but the center may still have a slight jiggle—don’t worry, it will firm up as it cools!
10. Let the cheesecake cool completely. Then, cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you can wait!).
11. Now, let’s make that heavenly salted caramel sauce! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns amber-colored, stirring gently to avoid burning it.
12. Add the butter and stir until it’s melted, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. Be careful, as it may bubble up! Finish by stirring in the sea salt.
13. Drizzle your cooled salted caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake before serving. It’s the cherry on top of this delightful creation!

 

Nutritional Snapshot

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 55g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 2g

This delicious cheesecake is packed with protein and a hint of fiber from the apples, making it a fulfilling dessert without weighing you down.

When to Enjoy It

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is perfect for a cozy family dinner, holiday gatherings, or just a sweet treat on a chilly afternoon. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience. You could even serve it with vanilla ice cream for a comforting twist that the whole family will love!

Keep It Fresh

To keep your cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will last for about a week in the fridge, but I bet it won’t last that long! You can also freeze it for up to three months; just make sure to slice it first for easy thawing. Leave it in the fridge overnight to enjoy it at its best.

Betty’s Secrets

• For a creamier cheesecake, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• To enhance the flavor, you can add a teaspoon of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice to the apples.
• A touch of maple syrup can replace some of the sugar in the caramel for a deliciously unique twist.

Creative Twists

• Why not mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch?
• In autumn, try adding a hint of pumpkin spice to the apple layer for seasonal flair.
• For chocolate lovers, drizzling melted chocolate over the top adds an extra touch of indulgence.

Your Questions Answered

How do I know when my cheesecake is done? You want the edges to be firm but the center to have a slight jiggle; it will set as it cools!

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Absolutely! It’s a great make-ahead dessert that actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a day.

What’s the best way to store leftovers? Just keep it in the fridge, covered, and it’s good for about a week.

Can I use different fruits for this recipe? Yes! Pears or berries can be great substitutes for apples for a delightful change!