Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of baked apples and caramel wafting through the kitchen on a crisp autumn afternoon. This Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake is the perfect centerpiece for cozy family gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or any weekend when you want to indulge in something extraordinary. Inspired by the warmth of fall flavors and the timeless appeal of cheesecake, this recipe combines creamy, velvety filling with tender apple slices and a rich, buttery crust. A drizzle of salted caramel on top brings just the right balance of sweetness and sophistication, turning a simple dessert into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying cheesecake for the first time, this recipe is designed to delight your taste buds and impress anyone who takes a bite.

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Ingredients

Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp sea salt

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Directions

1. Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, gather your crust ingredients and a 9-inch springform pan. The crust serves as the foundation of your cheesecake, so taking the time to prepare it carefully will ensure a crisp and flavorful base.

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Use a spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. This will help the crust hold together and give it a rich, buttery flavor that complements the cheesecake filling.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared springform pan. Using the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands, press the crumbs firmly and evenly across the bottom. Make sure the layer is uniform, as an uneven crust can cause the cheesecake to bake irregularly. Don’t worry about creating a thick layer; about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thickness is ideal for a balanced bite.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Baking the crust before adding the filling helps it set and prevents it from becoming soggy once the cheesecake is baked. After 10 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and set it aside to cool. While it cools, you can move on to preparing the cheesecake filling.

Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the crust mixture before baking. This will subtly echo the spices in the apple filling.

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2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat the ingredients together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step is crucial to prevent lumps in your cheesecake and achieve that signature velvety texture.

Next, add the vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Vanilla enhances the overall flavor, creating a warm and inviting taste that pairs perfectly with apples and caramel.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This slow, careful mixing helps prevent overbeating, which can introduce air into the batter and lead to cracks in the cheesecake.

Once the eggs are blended, stir in the sour cream. The sour cream adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness of the apples and caramel. Mix until the filling is smooth, but avoid overmixing, as it can affect the texture.

Now, gently fold in the apple slices along with the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Folding carefully ensures the apples are evenly distributed without breaking them up, and the spices are blended throughout the batter. These apples will bake to tender perfection, releasing natural sweetness that enhances the cheesecake’s flavor.

Tip: If you like, lightly sauté the apples in a small pan with a teaspoon of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon before folding them in. This adds extra depth of flavor and a slightly caramelized texture.

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3. Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the countertop a few times to release any air bubbles trapped in the filling. This helps create a smooth surface and prevents unwanted cracks.

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a gentle jiggle. This slight wobble ensures a creamy texture once chilled.

After baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door. Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven for 1 hour. Gradual cooling prevents cracks and helps the filling set properly. Once cooled, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld, and the cheesecake will firm up, making it easier to slice.

Tip: Avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking, as temperature fluctuations can cause the cheesecake to crack.

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4. Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce

While the cheesecake chills, prepare the decadent salted caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar. Stir constantly to prevent burning, watching as it gradually melts and transforms into a deep amber-colored syrup.

Carefully add the cubed butter, whisking until fully melted. The butter adds richness and depth to the caramel. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until smooth. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so take care to pour gradually. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the sea salt.

Allow the caramel to cool slightly before drizzling it over the cheesecake. The sauce can be poured warm for a gooey, flowing topping, or slightly cooled for a thicker layer that stays neatly in place.

Tip: If you prefer a milder sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly or add a touch more sea salt to balance the flavor.

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5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Place it on a serving plate or cake stand to showcase its beautiful layers.

Generously drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the top. For a decorative touch, you can create swirling patterns with a spoon or knife. Slice the cheesecake using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean, professional-looking pieces.

Serve each slice on its own, or pair with additional apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent presentation. This cheesecake is perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress with a rich, comforting dessert.

Tip: Leftover cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The caramel sauce can be stored separately and reheated gently before serving.

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Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to avoid a lumpy filling.

• Avoid Cracks: To minimize cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water on the lower rack while baking.

• Apple Variety: Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape better and provide a nice balance to the sweet caramel.

• Caramel Storage: Make extra salted caramel sauce for drizzling over other desserts or ice cream.

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Why This Cheesecake Works

The combination of textures and flavors is what makes this cheesecake truly irresistible. The crumbly, buttery crust provides a solid base for the creamy, spiced apple filling, while the salted caramel topping adds a sophisticated sweetness that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese. Each slice is a perfect harmony of soft, crunchy, sweet, and slightly salty. This dessert is ideal for seasonal gatherings but is equally impressive for birthdays or celebratory dinners.

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Variations to Try

• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on the crust before baking.

• Caramel Swirl: Gently swirl some caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling before baking for a marbled effect.

• Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual cheesecakes in a muffin tin for a fun presentation and easy serving.

• Apple Topping: Caramelize extra apple slices in a skillet with butter and sugar, and arrange them on top before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced tea, fresh coffee, or even hot chocolate on a chilly afternoon. For added flair, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The dessert’s warm caramel and cinnamon notes complement autumn flavors like pumpkin, pecans, and cranberries, making it perfect for seasonal tablescapes.

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Storage and Shelf Life

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake without the caramel sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

• Caramel Sauce: Keep any extra caramel in a sealed jar in the refrigerator and reheat gently before using.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely. This cheesecake actually tastes better when allowed to chill overnight, as the flavors meld and the texture firms up beautifully.

2. Can I substitute the apples with another fruit?
Yes, pears or peaches can be used as a delicious alternative, though they may alter the baking time slightly due to differences in moisture content.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Use a water bath during baking or let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven. Avoid overmixing the batter, and always use room temperature ingredients.

4. Can I make a smaller cheesecake?
Yes, simply adjust the baking time accordingly. Mini cheesecakes in muffin tins usually take 20-25 minutes at 350°F.

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