If you are on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that perfectly blends creamy richness with cozy fall flavors, this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine the smooth tang of cheesecake meeting the warm spices of spiced apples and the luscious, buttery hit of salted caramel, all layered atop a crunchy graham cracker crust. It is truly a comforting treat that feels both familiar and indulgently fancy, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether for holiday celebrations or just a special weekend indulgence, this recipe promises layers of texture and flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in building the stunning texture and complex flavors of the cheesecake. From the buttery crust to the spiced apple topping and the decadent salted caramel, every element is essential to the final masterpiece.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy and slightly sweet base that complements the creamy filling.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust): Adds the right touch of sweetness to balance the buttery crust.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients and delivers a rich, golden flavor.
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake, offering creamy texture and tang.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cheesecake filling flawlessly.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a hint of molasses flavor to deepen the filling’s richness.
- 3 large eggs: Structure and moisture to help the cheesecake set perfectly.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds aromatic warmth and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Gives the cheesecake a luscious tang and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the batter.
- 3 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 3-4 apples): The autumnal, tender fruit topping that brings freshness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for apples): Sweetens the spiced apple mixture just right.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Classic spice that instantly evokes warm apple pie vibes.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: A touch of nutty spice to elevate the apple topping.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps cook down and soften the apples nicely.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel): The foundation of the silky salted caramel sauce.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Adds richness and balances the caramel’s sweetness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for caramel): Creates that dreamy, smooth caramel texture.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Gives the salted caramel its signature savory kick.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Baking the crust for 10 minutes allows it to set beautifully, giving you that perfect crunchy foundation once cooled.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until silky smooth and lump-free. Adding the eggs one at a time ensures a creamy finish without any cracks. Then, blend in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, which together enrich the texture and add a subtle tang. Pour this luscious batter over the cooled crust, readying it for baking.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Place your springform pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the outer dish with hot water halfway up the pan’s sides. This water bath keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents cracking during baking. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles ever so slightly. Cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let it firm up properly—a step well worth the wait.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Topping
While the cheesecake chills, simmer peeled and chopped apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the apples soften and the mixture thickens, creating a flavorful topping reminiscent of classic apple pie filling. Let it cool to room temperature to maintain its luscious texture when layered onto the cheesecake.
Step 5: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt granulated sugar over medium heat, swirling gently until it turns a rich amber color. Stir in butter pieces until melted and combined, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking vigorously to keep the sauce smooth. Finally, sprinkle in sea salt to balance the sweetness with that irresistible savory note. Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly so it thickens just enough for drizzling.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake
Gently remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and set it on a serving platter. Spread the spiced apple topping evenly over the cheesecake surface, then generously drizzle with the homemade salted caramel sauce. The combination of creamy cheesecake, tender apples, and glossy caramel creates a stunning dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cheesecake with a warm knife to get clean edges and watch as the layers reveal themselves. Optionally, add an extra drizzle of salted caramel sauce on each serving for an indulgent finishing touch. This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe is guaranteed to delight your friends and family with every bite.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your cheesecake from delicious to unforgettable. Whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cake, while a sprinkle of crushed pecans or toasted walnuts adds welcome crunch and nuttiness. A light dusting of cinnamon can echo the warm spices in the apple topping, enhancing the overall experience beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened mascarpone cream to balance the sweetness and add extra creaminess. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or berries provides a refreshing contrast and can brighten the dessert plate with color and texture variations.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe in miniature portions for a party by making cheesecake jars layered with caramel sauce and apple topping. You can also serve individual slices with a caramel drizzle artistically swirled on the plate. Using edible flowers or fresh mint leaves adds an elegant finishing touch that will wow your guests visually as well as on the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will hold its flavor and texture for up to 5 days, making it ideal for enjoying over multiple days or preparing in advance for a gathering.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes wonderfully if you want to make it ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cheesecake will retain its deliciousness for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Because this dessert is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer the salted caramel warm, you can gently warm the sauce separately and drizzle it over chilled slices just before serving, which adds a lovely temperature contrast and keeps the cheesecake itself perfect.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for the topping?
Yes, frozen apples work well if fresh ones are out of season. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to achieve the right consistency in your spiced apple topping.
What type of apples is best for this recipe?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape while cooking and provide a lovely balance to the sweet caramel and creamy cheesecake.
Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The salted caramel sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Rewarm gently before drizzling over your cheesecake to restore its perfect pourable texture.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
Cracks happen to even experienced bakers. Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door ajar helps prevent cracks. If cracks appear, simply cover them with the apple topping and caramel sauce—the toppings hide imperfections beautifully!
Is it okay to use regular table salt instead of sea salt for the caramel?
While regular table salt can be used in a pinch, sea salt offers a subtle mineral taste and flaky texture that complements the caramel better, giving the sauce that special signature flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe is like treating yourself to the best of fall’s flavors wrapped up in a decadent dessert. It’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare yet endlessly impressive in taste and presentation. Share it with friends or family, or simply savor it as a special treat—you’ll find every bite warm and welcoming. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your absolute favorites to make and share again and again.
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Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavor of cooked apples and a luscious homemade salted caramel sauce. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, this decadent dessert is perfect for fall and special occasions, delivering a delightful blend of apple pie and cheesecake in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Apple Topping
- 3 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 3–4 apples)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup water
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until fully incorporated.
- Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Place the pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the larger dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked open to cool gradually for about an hour. Then transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
- Prepare the Apple Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peeled and chopped apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Make the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until it dissolves and turns a deep amber color. Carefully add the butter pieces and stir until melted and combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring vigorously to prevent lumps. Stir in the sea salt and remove from heat. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before using.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Remove the chilled cheesecake from the springform pan and place it onto a serving platter. Spread the cooled apple topping evenly over the surface of the cheesecake. Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the apples and cheesecake.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cheesecake into 10 servings and optionally garnish each slice with extra salted caramel sauce before serving for a rich, indulgent dessert experience.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth cheesecake filling to avoid lumps.
- If you prefer a firmer cheesecake, bake an additional 5-10 minutes but be careful not to overbake and crack the cheesecake.
- Feel free to substitute Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor or sweeter apple varieties depending on your preference.
- The water bath helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking and ensures even baking.
- Salted caramel sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated; gently rewarm before drizzling.
- Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
