Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that captures the essence of fall, then this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is just what you need! It combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with creamy cheesecake and sweet, caramelized apples. This dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy night in, this cheesecake will quickly become a favorite in your home.

What makes it even better? You get all the deliciousness of apple pie without the hassle of making a traditional pie crust. So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy every luscious bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and rich cheesecake creates an explosion of flavor in every slice.
• Easy to Make: With clear steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can master this delightful dessert!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual family gathering, this cheesecake steals the show.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Many components can be prepared ahead of time, making it stress-free for busy days.
• Gorgeous Presentation: With its beautiful layers and shiny caramel drizzle, this cheesecake is as stunning as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake, you’ll use simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need to create this delicious masterpiece:

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

For Additional Apple Pie Topping

(Repeat apple filling ingredients above.)

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:

• Change Up the Apples: Opt for different apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for unique flavors.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for added texture.
• Switch to a Chocolate Drizzle: Replace salted caramel with melted chocolate for a chocolatey twist!
• Incorporate Spices: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to give your cheesecake an extra kick.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before diving into making your cheesecake, take a moment to read through the entire recipe. Gather all your ingredients so you have everything ready. This will ensure a smooth baking process!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your apples thickly—about ¼ to ½ inch. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients. Cook them gently for about 8-14 minutes until they become tender. If needed, add more cider or water to keep things saucy! Once softened and flavorful, set them aside to cool.

Step 3: Create the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray. Combine your graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well-mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of your pan. Bake it for about 10 minutes until set!

Step 4: Prepare Your Cheesecake Batter

Now onto that creamy filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in sugar while mixing well—this helps get rid of lumps! Then mix in eggs one at a time before adding vanilla, sour cream, cornstarch, and spices. Pour half this batter into your baked crust before layering on those delicious spiced apples!

Step 5: Assemble with Care

Pour on the rest of your cheesecake batter over those lovely apples. Smooth out any bumps using an offset spatula—it should look pretty before it heads into the oven!

Step 6: Bake with Love

Set your cheesecake pan inside a larger roasting pan filled with boiling water—this water bath helps keep everything creamy during baking! Bake for about 90 minutes or until slightly jiggly in the center but firm around edges.

Step 7: Cool & Chill

Once baked perfectly golden on top, let it cool slowly in the oven for an hour after turning it off. After cooling completely at room temperature, cover it up tightly and refrigerate overnight—or at least six hours—to allow those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 8: Make Your Toppings

While waiting patiently for your cheesecake to chill out in its fridge home sweet home… prepare that delectable crumble topping by baking oats mixed with flour & sugars until golden brown! And don’t forget about that salted caramel sauce we mentioned earlier—it’s simple yet divine!

Step 9: Final Assembly

Top each slice liberally with apple pie topping followed by crumble before drizzling generously with caramel sauce right before serving!

Now slice up those gorgeous pieces—and don’t forget; sharing is caring when it comes down to desserts like these! Enjoy every amazing bite together with friends or family—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a delightful journey! Follow these tips to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature cream cheese and eggs helps achieve a smooth, lump-free filling. If they are too cold, they can create a lumpy texture in your cheesecake batter.

• Thoroughly Cool Your Cheesecake: After baking, let your cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface as it cools.

• Use a Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath (or bain-marie) protects it from direct heat and ensures even cooking. This technique prevents the edges from overcooking while keeping the center creamy and smooth.

• Chill Overnight for Best Flavor: Allowing your cheesecake to chill overnight intensifies the flavors and helps set its structure. It’s worth the wait!

• Drizzle Generously with Caramel: Don’t hold back when topping your cheesecake with salted caramel sauce—this adds an irresistible sweetness that ties all the flavors together beautifully!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Presenting your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to make serving extra special.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich cheesecake.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top enhances visual appeal while adding an extra hint of spice.
• Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of warm cheesecake with vanilla ice cream creates a creamy, dreamy combination that melts in your mouth.
• Spiced Pear Compote: A warm spiced pear compote brings seasonal flavors that will elevate your dessert experience.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cheesecake, providing a burst of freshness with every bite.
• Coffee or Tea: Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a cozy finish, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with this show-stopping dessert. Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! You can make various components ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or special occasions. Here’s how to store everything efficiently:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the cheesecake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• If you’d like to enjoy a slice warm, you can microwave it on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can place a slice on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake that might help you out!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake without apples?

While apples are a key ingredient, you could substitute them with another fruit like pears or peaches. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile but can still result in a delicious dessert!

How do I prevent my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent cracks, ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Also, using a water bath during baking helps maintain moisture, resulting in a creamy texture without cracks.

Can I use different spices in my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Pumpkin spice or even ginger can add a lovely twist if you’re feeling adventurous!

How long does the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake need to chill?

For the best results, let your cheesecake chill for at least 6 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake as much as I do! It’s truly a show-stopper with its layers of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples, all topped off with crumbly goodness and luscious caramel. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just because, this dessert is sure to impress friends and family alike. Happy baking!