Why Make This Recipe

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the comforting taste of apple pie. This recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, sweet apples, and a touch of salty caramel, making it a favorite for gatherings, holidays, or even a cozy night at home. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Ingredients

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 (for caramel)
6 tbsp unsalted butter (for caramel)
1/2 cup heavy cream (for caramel)
1 tsp sea salt (for caramel)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined.
Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Toss to coat the apples.
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
In another large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is fully combined.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the apples in the pan.
Bake the cheesecake for about 60-70 minutes until the center is almost set.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
To make the salted caramel sauce, heat 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it melts and turns an amber color.
Add 6 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring the mixture.
Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve on dessert plates. You can add extra caramel sauce drizzle on top for a more indulgent treat. It pairs nicely with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. It should be good for up to five days in the fridge.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth texture.
You can use store-bought caramel sauce if you’re short on time but homemade tastes best.
For a stronger apple flavor, feel free to add more sliced apples, but make sure to balance them with the cheesecake mixture.

Variation

Try adding nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the apple layer for added crunch. You can also swap out the apples for pears or other fruits that you enjoy.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake a day ahead?
Yes, making it a day ahead is perfect! It gives the flavors more time to blend and allows it to set properly in the fridge.

2. What type of apples are best for this recipe?
A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works well. This provides a nice balance of flavor.

3. Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to two months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.