Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake

This salted caramel apple pie cheesecake marries the comforting warmth of spiced apples with the creamy delight of cheesecake, all lifted by luscious ribbons of salted caramel. It brings together two classic desserts into one indulgent treat that always steals the show at gatherings.

I first made this recipe when I wanted to impress my family at a holiday dinner, and it quickly became the dessert everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients You Need

• Graham cracker crumbs: for a buttery, crunchy base choose finely ground crumbs for even texture
• Unsalted butter: melted to bind the crust and add richness select high quality for the best flavor
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the crust and filling opt for pure white sugar for a clean taste
• Cream cheese: softened to room temperature ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake
• Sour cream: gently adds moisture and tang for balance
• Large eggs: at room temperature provide structure and richness to the batter
• Vanilla extract: infuses warmth and depth use pure vanilla for authenticity
• Granny Smith apples: peeled and sliced for tartness and firm texture pick fresh, crisp apples that hold shape when cooked
• Sugar for apples: sweetens and helps draw out natural juices
• Ground cinnamon: adds warmth and spice harmonizing with the caramel
• Salted caramel sauce: store-bought or homemade is the star glaze bringing a salty-sweet complexity

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build the Crust:

Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the base of your baking dish to create a sturdy foundation for the cheesecake.

Prepare the Filling:

Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and velvety. Gradually beat in sour cream and granulated sugar to maintain creaminess. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently while ensuring they incorporate fully. Stir in vanilla extract for flavor warmth.

Cook the Apples:

Warm a pan over medium heat and sauté sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon. Cook until the apples begin to soften but still maintain some bite, releasing their natural sweetness and spice aroma.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

Spread half the cheesecake mixture over the crust base. Layer the cooked apples evenly on top, then carefully spoon over the remaining cheesecake mixture. For a beautiful touch, drizzle salted caramel over the top and gently swirl it with a knife or skewer.

Bake and Cool:

Place the assembled cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for about one hour or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. After baking, cool the cheesecake completely before adding more salted caramel drizzle prior to serving.

I love how the apples bring a fresh crispness that cuts through the cheesecake's richness while the salted caramel adds just the right hint of sophistication. This recipe reminds me of cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones, filling the house with buttery, cinnamon-scented warmth.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. This cheesecake holds well for up to five days, allowing flavors to deepen beautifully overnight. For longer storage, freeze wrapped in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Ingredient Variations

Swap Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp for a slightly sweeter, less tart taste. Try adding a handful of chopped toasted pecans to the crust for crunch and nutty depth. Use a cinnamon-spiced cookie crumb crust for an extra layer of warm spice.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to heighten indulgence. A hot cup of spiced chai or cinnamon-infused coffee complements the warm apple and caramel notes beautifully. A light white wine like Riesling balances the sweetness and sanctuary richness.

This cheesecake has woven its way into many holiday celebrations in my family. Watching the caramel drizzle cascade over the top always brings smiles and sparks conversations around the dessert table. It has become a symbol of warmth and shared joy during colder months.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of apples work best for this dessert?

Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firm texture, which hold up well when sautéed and baked.

→ Can I make the salted caramel sauce from scratch?

Yes, homemade salted caramel with butter, sugar, and cream enhances the flavor and texture, but store-bought works well too.

→ Why should cream cheese and eggs be at room temperature?

This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free batter by allowing ingredients to blend evenly without curdling.

→ How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and consider briefly baking the crust before adding the filling to create a barrier.

→ What is a good alternative to graham cracker crumbs?

Crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers can substitute, adding a different but complementary flavor to the crust.

→ How long should the dessert cool before serving?

Allow it to cool completely, preferably several hours or overnight, so the filling sets nicely and flavors meld.