Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 300 min
Ingredients: 14 full sheets honey Graham crackers (about 2 scant cups crushed); 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 8 tablespoons butter (melted, salted or unsalted); 32 oz. full fat cream cheese (softened); 1.25 cups granulated sugar; 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger; 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon ground allspice; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sour cream (at room temperature); 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 4 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature); 6 large Granny Smith apples (about 42 ounces, peeled, cored, and chopped into ⅓ inch thick pieces); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or salted, omit additional salt); 0.67 cups chopped pecans (optional but recommended); 0.5 cup packed light brown sugar; 0.25 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger; 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 0.33 cups caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought (homemade is recommended)); whipped cream or ice cream (optional)

Delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake topped with caramel drizzle and apple slices

Why Make This Recipe

Caramel Apple Cheesecake brings together two beloved desserts: rich cheesecake and sweet, gooey caramel apples. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a cozy night in. The creamy texture of the cheesecake pairs beautifully with the tartness of Granny Smith apples, while the caramel adds a delightful sweetness. Making this dessert is not overly complicated and is sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, it's a fun opportunity to practice your baking skills and indulge in something truly delicious.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Ingredients

To make Caramel Apple Cheesecake, you will need the following items:

1 9-inch round, 3-inch high springform pan
1 3-8 quart slow cooker liner (or roasting bag)
1 large roasting pan
Parchment paper
Foil
Nonstick cooking spray
14 full sheets honey Graham crackers (about 2 scant cups crushed)
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
8 tablespoons butter, melted (salted or unsalted)
4 full 8 oz. packages (32 oz.) full fat cream cheese, softened
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon each of ground ginger, ground nutmeg, allspice
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
Zest from 1 lemon
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
6 Granny Smith apples (about 42 ounces), peeled, cored, and chopped into ⅓" thick pieces
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or salted, and omit salt)
⅔ cup chopped pecans (optional but recommended)
½ cup packed light brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon each of ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup caramel sauce, homemade or store-bought (homemade is highly recommended!)
Whipped cream or ice cream (optional, for serving)

Directions

Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare your springform pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper.

Crust

Crush the honey Graham crackers in a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and smashing them. Mix 2 cups of the crumbs with 3 tablespoons of sugar and the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.

Waterproof Pan

Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil. This keeps water from seeping in during baking.

Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it's smooth. Add 1 ¼ cups of sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Mix until combined. Add the sour cream, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, and mix again. Add the eggs and egg yolk, one at a time, mixing on low until just blended. Be careful not to overmix.

Water Bath

Place the springform pan inside a large roasting pan. Then fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.

Bake

Carefully place the roasting pan in the oven. Bake the cheesecake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set. It might jiggle a little in the middle, but that's okay. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

Chill

Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Apple Topping + Caramel

While the cheesecake is chilling, make the apple topping. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add chopped apples, lemon juice, cornstarch, and the spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt). Cook until the apples are tender. Stir in the chopped pecans and mix well. Remove from heat and let cool.

When ready to serve, top the chilled cheesecake with the apple mixture and drizzle with caramel sauce.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Slice the cheesecake into pieces and serve each piece with a generous amount of the apple topping. You can drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for added sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream can make it even more delightful!

How to Store Caramel Apple Cheesecake

If you have leftovers, keep the cheesecake in the springform pan or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain freshness, cover the top with plastic wrap.

Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Ensure the cream cheese is very soft before mixing. This helps avoid lumps.
Room temperature eggs blend better into the batter, creating a smoother cheesecake.
Avoid opening the oven door while baking to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
If you want an extra rich taste, use homemade caramel sauce.

Variation

Feel free to switch things up! Instead of Granny Smith apples, you can use another variety of apples, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, depending on your taste. You could also add different spices or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but the texture may be different. Full-fat cream cheese provides a richer flavor and creamier structure.

Do I have to use a water bath?
It's highly recommended to keep the cheesecake moist and prevent cracking, but if you skip it, watch the baking time closely.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cheesecake is often better the next day after chilling. You can make it up to 2 days in advance.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a delicious treat that combines the flavors of cheesecake and caramel apples for a delightful dessert experience. With just a bit of time and effort, you can create a dish that will be loved by everyone. Enjoy your baking adventure and savor each bite of this sweet, creamy delight!