Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, let me introduce you to my cherished Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. This recipe is an absolute favorite in my kitchen, combining the warm flavors of spiced apples and creamy cheesecake into one delightful bite. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or even as a sweet treat to impress friends when they come over.

What makes this cheesecake so special is its beautiful layers of caramelized apples tucked between a rich vanilla cinnamon cheesecake filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. Plus, topping it off with an oat crumble and salted caramel sauce takes it to another level of deliciousness. Trust me, once you serve this at your next gathering, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and creamy cheesecake is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With clear instructions, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular Sunday dinner, this cheesecake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare components in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve it.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love every sweet layer, making it a hit with everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need right here to whip up your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake.

For the Apple Filling:

• 4 medium apples (588 grams sliced)
• 3 tbsp salted butter (42 grams)
• 1-2 tbsp apple cider
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/8 tsp allspice
• 1-2 tsp lemon juice (to taste)
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp water

For the Crust:

• 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (300 grams)
• 1/2 cup + 3 tbsp salted butter (melted; 155 grams)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 32 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature; full-fat, block style)
• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar (308 grams)
• 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 tsp corn starch
• 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream (at room temperature; 180 grams)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (33 grams)

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1/2 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats (48 grams)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed; 55 grams)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cold salted butter (cubed; 57 grams)

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar (210 grams)
• 6 tbsp salted butter (cubed; 85 grams)
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream (135 grams)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Variations

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Change Up the Fruit: Swap apples for pears or peaches for a different fruity twist.
• Add Nuts: Toss some chopped pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for added crunch.
• Switch Up the Spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
• Use Different Sauces: Drizzle with chocolate sauce instead of caramel if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before diving into this delicious adventure, take a moment to read through the entire recipe. Gathering all your ingredients will make things smoother and more enjoyable in the kitchen.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your apples into thick pieces. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients. Cook until tender—this helps bring out their sweetness! If needed, thicken with cornstarch mixed with water to give it that perfect consistency.

Step 3: Create the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a mixing bowl until well blended. Press this mixture firmly into your springform pan—this forms that delicious base for our cheesecake! Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4: Mix Together the Cheesecake Filling

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before starting! Beat it until creamy in a large mixing bowl. Add in sugar followed by eggs one at a time. Mixing each egg until just incorporated keeps your cheesecake smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Pour half of the cheesecake batter into your baked crust. Spoon on that luscious apple filling evenly across the surface before layering on the remaining batter. It’s important not to overmix at this stage—just smooth it out gently!

Step 6: Set Up Your Water Bath

To keep things creamy while baking, place your springform pan inside a larger roasting pan filled partway with hot water. This method helps prevent cracking—a baker’s best friend!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cheesecake for about an hour and thirty minutes until it has set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center. This ensures that perfect creamy texture we all crave!

Step 8: Chill Out!

Once you’ve turned off your oven, let it cool inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour before transferring it to cool completely at room temperature. Then cover and refrigerate for at least six hours—overnight is even better!

Step 9: Prepare Your Toppings

While your cheesecake chills, make that crunchy crumble topping by mixing oats, flour, brown sugar, and cold butter—bake until golden brown! And don’t forget about that homemade salted caramel sauce—it’s easy peasy!

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Top your chilled cheesecake with warm apple pie topping, sprinkle on that crumble goodness, and drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce before slicing up! Watch as smiles spread around when it’s served.

And there you have it—your very own Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake ready to steal hearts! Enjoy every sweet moment!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Making this luscious cheesecake can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature will help create a smooth and creamy batter, preventing lumps in your cheesecake.

• Don’t Skip the Water Bath: Using a water bath while baking helps maintain an even temperature, which prevents cracks on the surface and ensures a silky texture throughout your cheesecake.

• Be Patient with Cooling: Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking.

• Chill Overnight for Best Flavor: While you can serve it after just six hours, chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances the flavors and allows it to set perfectly.

• Drizzle Right Before Serving: For the best presentation, drizzle the salted caramel sauce on top just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent sogginess.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Here’s how you can present it beautifully at your gatherings!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a lightness that contrasts nicely with the dense cheesecake.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top gives an inviting aroma and enhances the fall flavors of apple and spice.
• Caramel Drizzle: A final drizzle of warm salted caramel not only looks appealing but also boosts the flavor profile with extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the rich cheesecake, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the cheesecake with its tartness and adds a burst of color to your plate.
• Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts bring crunch and warmth, complementing the flavors of both apple and caramel beautifully.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with this dessert, offering a lovely way to end any meal with a comforting finish.

With these serving ideas and tips, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family with your culinary skills. Enjoy every slice of this delightful dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is not only a showstopper for your dinner table but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make components in advance, saving you time on the day you plan to serve it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If possible, keep the toppings separate until serving for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, serve the cheesecake cold or at room temperature.
• If desired, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid reheating the entire cheesecake in an oven, as this may alter its texture.

FAQs

You might have some questions while preparing this delightful dessert!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. It even tastes better as it sits, allowing flavors to meld.

What apples are best for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

For optimal flavor and texture, choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

How do I prevent my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake from cracking?

To help prevent cracks, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Also, using a water bath while baking helps maintain moisture and creates a creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! It’s a special treat that captures all the cozy flavors of fall without any fuss. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or enjoying it all by yourself, it’s sure to bring smiles. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!