Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe

If you love the cozy flavors of fall and the irresistible combination of creamy and crunchy textures, you are going to adore this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. This heavenly dessert brings together tender cinnamon-spiced apples, a rich and velvety cheesecake layer, and a buttery graham cracker crust, all generously draped with luscious homemade salted caramel. It’s like having your two favorite desserts in one, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring on your own. Trust me, once you try the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the buttery crust that provides a crisp base to the creamy cheesecake filling that contrasts beautifully with the tender apple layer, each component contributes to the magic of this dessert.

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy and slightly sweet foundation.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the crust.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust together and adds richness.
• 24 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake, giving it that smooth, creamy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• 3 large eggs: Helps bind the cheesecake filling while keeping it silky.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang for a perfect cheesecake bite.
• 3 cups peeled and sliced apples: Fresh, juicy apples that bring natural sweetness and texture.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Gives the apples a caramelized sweetness when baked.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the apple mixture so it stays on top of the crust.
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel): The essential ingredient to create that rich caramel base.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter (for caramel): Adds a smooth, velvety texture to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 1 tsp sea salt: Perfectly balances the sweetness with a touch of salty goodness in the caramel.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust. Bake it for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool completely. This step ensures a crispy base that holds all the delicious layers perfectly.

Step 2: Create the Apple Pie Layer

While the crust cools, toss the peeled and sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour in a large bowl. The brown sugar sweetens and softens the apples as they bake, the cinnamon infuses cozy spice, and the flour thickens their juices so the filling won’t be too runny. Spread this fragrant apple mixture evenly over the cooled crust, layering the foundation for the cheesecake to come.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy with no lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each to create a silky finish. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated. The sour cream is key in giving the filling a tender but rich texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake batter gently over the layer of apples in your pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake this beauty for about 60 to 70 minutes until the center is just about set but still slightly jiggly — it will continue to firm up as it cools. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to perfect.

Step 5: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

To create the divine salted caramel sauce, melt the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it turns a smooth, amber color without stirring too much. Stir in the butter until melted, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to combine. Remove from heat and mix in the sea salt to balance out all the sweetness with a hint of savory depth. Drizzle this golden perfection generously over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Garnishes

Enhance your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake with some whipped cream or a handful of chopped toasted pecans for an added crunch. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top can lift the warm apple flavors even more, making every bite feel like a hug from the inside.

Side Dishes

Serve this luscious cheesecake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for those who love even more creamy goodness. Fresh fruit, such as sliced pears or berries, adds a refreshing complement, balancing the rich sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake layers.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve individual portions in clear glass cups layered with crumbled crust, baked apple slices, cheesecake filling, and a drizzle of caramel on top. This not only looks stunning but also ensures every bite gets a taste of each component.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully fresh for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy over several days or save for special moments.

Freezing

You can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and drizzle with fresh caramel to bring it back to life.

Reheating

Since this is a cheesecake, it’s best enjoyed chilled. If you prefer it slightly warmed, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the cream cheese to curdle and ruin the silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this cheesecake?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work nicely for balance, you can mix sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji with tart ones to customize the flavor profile to your liking. Just be sure to peel and slice them evenly for consistent baking.

Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?

You could try substituting dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, as well as coconut cream in place of heavy cream. However, note that the texture and flavor may vary slightly since traditional dairy ingredients contribute to the classic cheesecake creaminess.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Mixing ingredients gently, avoiding over-beating, and baking at a lower temperature all help reduce cracks. Also, cooling the cheesecake gradually and chilling it overnight lets it set perfectly without sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the crust and apple layer a day before and keep them refrigerated. The cheesecake batter can also be made earlier, but it’s best to assemble and bake it fresh to maintain the best texture and flavor.

What wine pairs well with Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

A sweet or semi-sweet wine like a late harvest Riesling or a Moscato d’Asti wonderfully complements the caramel and apple notes while balancing the richness of the cheesecake.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake — it’s the perfect marriage of warmth, sweetness, and creaminess all in one slice. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a special occasion, or a much-needed treat after a long day, this recipe will not disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try it and create sweet memories with every bite!

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