Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the ultimate dessert fusion with this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe. This decadent treat combines a rich cheesecake layer with spiced apple filling and a luscious salted caramel drizzle, making it a showstopper for any gathering. Perfect for fall festivities or any time you crave something sweet and savory, this dessert will leave everyone wanting more.
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is an indulgent blend of classic flavors, providing a delicious dessert that radiates warmth and comfort.
A Delicious Treat for Every Occasion
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience. This delightful fusion of classic flavors brings together the richness of cheesecake, the warmth of spiced apples, and the indulgence of salted caramel in a way that tantalizes every taste bud. Whether you're hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to treat yourself, this cheesecake will be the highlight of your event. Its stunning presentation will have your guests reaching for seconds and thirds!
Imagine gathering around the table during the fall, surrounded by family and friends, as the rich aroma of cinnamon and caramel fill the air. This cheesecake is an ideal centerpiece for holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving or family reunions. It beautifully combines seasonal flavors while standing out with its creamy texture and balanced sweetness. Everyone will be talking about it long after the last slice is gone.
Making the Most of Your Ingredients
Quality ingredients are crucial in elevating the flavors of your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Start with fresh, crisp apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the apple filling. Their natural tartness combined with the sweetness of the caramel creates a perfect harmony. Additionally, using full-fat cream cheese and sour cream ensures a rich and creamy cheesecake layer that melts in your mouth.
Don’t overlook the importance of the caramel sauce, either. Making it from scratch as per the recipe brings a depth of flavor that store-bought varieties can’t match. The combination of granulated sugar, butter, and heavy cream results in a smooth, luscious sauce that enhances every bite of cheesecake. The touch of sea salt introduces an exciting contrast to the sweetness, making each mouthful memorable.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
Achieving the perfect cheesecake texture requires careful attention to detail. One of the most important steps is to ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter without lumps, leading to a creamier cheesecake. Don't rush through the mixing process; beat the cream cheese and sugar until fully combined for the best results.
Also, consider using a water bath while baking the cheesecake. Placing the springform pan in a larger pan with water allows for gentle, even cooking and helps prevent cracks on the surface. After baking, let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar. This helps it set properly without sudden temperature changes that could lead to cracking.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
Apple Filling
- 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
Make sure to prepare all ingredients ahead of time for a seamless cooking experience.
Steps
Prepare the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Make the Apple Filling
In a bowl, combine apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss to coat and set aside.
Prepare the Cheesecake Batter
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in vanilla, eggs, and sour cream until fully combined.
Layer the Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust, followed by the apple filling, then top with the remaining cheesecake batter.
Bake
Bake at 325°F for 1 hour. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in for another hour. Remove and cool.
Make the Salted Caramel
In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until golden. Stir in butter and cream until smooth. Add sea salt to taste.
Assemble and Serve
Drizzle the cheesecake with salted caramel before serving. Enjoy!
Allow the cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is easy! Once completely cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to five days, allowing you to savor the flavors at your leisure. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, which will keep for about two months.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to thaw. The cheesecake maintains its delicious flavor and creamy texture, making it a convenient dessert option anytime you crave a sweet treat!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. You can also garnish each slice with additional caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance presentation and flavor. Crushed graham crackers can add a delightful crunch, providing a contrast to the creamy cheesecake layer.
For a festive touch, decorate the cheesecake with thinly sliced apples arranged beautifully on top. This not only looks appealing but also emphasizes the apple flavor that is central to this recipe. Your family and friends will be impressed by the elegant appearance and the rich combination of flavors!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What kind of apples work best?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great choices for this recipe.
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Experience the ultimate dessert fusion with this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe. This decadent treat combines a rich cheesecake layer with spiced apple filling and a luscious salted caramel drizzle, making it a showstopper for any gathering. Perfect for fall festivities or any time you crave something sweet and savory, this dessert will leave everyone wanting more.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
Apple Filling
- 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
How-To Steps
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a springform pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
In a bowl, combine apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss to coat and set aside.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in vanilla, eggs, and sour cream until fully combined.
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust, followed by the apple filling, then top with the remaining cheesecake batter.
Bake at 325°F for 1 hour. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in for another hour. Remove and cool.
In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until golden. Stir in butter and cream until smooth. Add sea salt to taste.
Drizzle the cheesecake with salted caramel before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 38g
- Protein: 6g