Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that combines the comforting flavors of fall, then this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is just what you need! It’s the perfect blend of rich cheesecake and spiced apples, all topped off with a delicious salted caramel drizzle. Whether it’s for a family gathering, Thanksgiving dinner, or simply a cozy night in, this cheesecake will warm your heart and tickle your taste buds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

This recipe brings together two beloved desserts: classic apple pie and creamy cheesecake. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it also looks stunning on any dessert table. Plus, there’s no fussing with traditional pie crusts—just a simple graham cracker base that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and creamy cheesecake creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, making this cheesecake is easier than you think!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy this delightful dessert.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy schedules; everything can be prepared in advance.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this beauty at gatherings, and watch friends and family rave about it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake are simple and wholesome. From fresh apples to creamy cheese, each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect dessert.

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 (73 grams)
• 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 (use the 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 cornstarch
• 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 (4 tbsp or 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 recipe is not only delicious but also flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your taste.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Use Different Apples: Experiment with various apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for unique flavors.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour.
• Change Up the Spice: Try adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the apple filling for an exciting twist.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before diving into making this cheesecake, take a moment to read through the entire recipe. Preparing ahead of time makes everything smoother! Gather all your ingredients so you’re ready to go.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Start by peeling and slicing your apples into thick pieces. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all the apple filling ingredients. Cook them for about 8-14 minutes until they reach your desired tenderness. If things get too dry while cooking, add a splash more cider or water. Once done cooking, let them cool in a bowl while you prepare the crust.

Step 3: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray. Mix together your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of your pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until set—this will give you that lovely crispy base!

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Ensure all your cream cheese ingredients are at room temperature before starting—this helps achieve that smooth texture! In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add sugar, then mix in eggs one at a time. Finally, add sour cream and spices until incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble Everything

Pour half of the cheesecake batter into your baked crust first. Then spoon over an even layer of your cooled apple filling before topping with remaining batter. This layering creates beautiful swirls when baked!

Step 6: Prepare Water Bath

To bake your cheesecake gently without cracking it, set up a water bath! Place your springform pan on a rack positioned in the center of the oven above a roasting pan filled with boiling water. This helps maintain moisture during baking.

Step 7: Bake Your Cheesecake

Bake in preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until slightly wobbly in the center but set around edges. Keep an eye on it as baking times can vary depending on ovens!

Step 8: Cool & Chill

Once baked perfectly—turn off that oven! Crack open its door slightly and let your cheesecake cool inside for an hour before transferring it out to cool completely on wire racks.

Step 9: Make Crumble Topping

While cooling down your cheesecake should be fun! Preheat another oven to 350°F again while you prepare crumble topping by combining oats with flour mix & baking it until golden brown – around 12-20 minutes should do!

Step 10: Make Salted Caramel Sauce

For that decadent drizzle finish—which we can’t skip—check out my quick Salted Caramel Sauce recipe! Let cool before using generously atop dessert just before serving.

Step 11: Prepare Apple Pie Topping

Repeat similar steps as earlier by cooking more sliced apples if desired along with seasoning—then let cool again!

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy!

Top off each slice with those glorious spiced apples from step eleven along with crumble topping from step nine plus caramel sauce drizzled over-the-top…and voilà – enjoy every bite!

With these easy steps completed successfully—you have created something truly special worthy of celebration!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake may seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious masterpiece!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature helps create a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.

• Don’t skip the water bath: Using a water bath while baking keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents it from cracking, resulting in a beautiful presentation.

• Cool slowly: Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps to prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.

• Chill overnight: For the best flavor and texture, let your cheesecake chill in the fridge overnight. This allows all the wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Make ahead whenever possible: Preparing components like the crumble topping or caramel sauce ahead of time saves you effort on the day of serving and ensures everything is ready when you are!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

When it comes to presenting your stunning Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake, a little creativity goes a long way. Here are some delightful ideas for serving this fabulous dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped coconut cream adds a creamy contrast to the cheesecake and makes it feel extra indulgent.

• Extra caramel drizzle: A generous swirl of homemade salted caramel sauce not only enhances the flavor but also provides an eye-catching touch.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm spices in the cheesecake, offering a delightful contrast in temperatures.

• Coffee or chai tea: A steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai tea complements the flavors beautifully and provides a cozy beverage option alongside dessert.

• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cheesecake for a well-rounded meal.

• Spiced apple cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider on the side for a festive fall vibe that ties perfectly into your delicious dessert theme!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare various components ahead of time, ensuring that when it comes time to serve, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• For best results, keep the topping separate until serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

• This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.
• If you prefer it slightly warmed, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake without sour cream?

Yes! If you prefer not to use sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture and flavor.

How do I store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 5 days.

Can I use different types of apples for the filling?

Absolutely! A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works wonderfully to create a balanced flavor profile in your cheesecake.

How long does it take to make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

The total time to prepare and bake this cheesecake is approximately 155 minutes. However, chilling time is crucial for the best texture—plan on at least 6 hours or overnight if possible!

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free options available on the market or use crushed gluten-free cookies instead.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to dive into making this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! It’s not only a stunning centerpiece but also combines the warm flavors of fall that everyone loves. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or simply a cozy night at home, this cheesecake is sure to delight. Enjoy the process of baking and savor each bite—you deserve it!