Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the perfect fall dessert! This delightful treat combines the classic flavors of apple pie with a creamy cheesecake twist. It’s ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With its luscious layers of caramelized apples, buttery oat crumble, and rich salted caramel drizzle, this cheesecake stands out as a showstopper on any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: Enjoy the best of both worlds with cheesecake and apple pie in one.
- Easy to Make: With clear instructions, anyone can master this dessert.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for holidays or casual get-togethers.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep components in advance to save time on the day of serving.
- Visually Stunning: The layered look and caramel drizzle make it a feast for the eyes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking this indulgent cheesecake, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch springform pan: This allows for easy removal of the cheesecake while maintaining its shape.
- Electric mixer: Ensures a creamy texture by thoroughly blending ingredients without lumps.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the apple filling evenly and controlling heat.
Ingredients
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 full-fat, block style)
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar (308 grams)
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature (240 grams)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
For the Crumble Topping
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (33 grams)
- 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
- pinch of flaky sea salt
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Read through the recipe before starting to ensure you have everything ready. This cheesecake has several components that can be made ahead.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
Peel and slice apples between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick. In a medium pan over medium-high heat:
1. Add all apple filling ingredients.
2. Cook for 8-14 minutes until desired tenderness is reached.
3. If liquid dries up, add more cider or water.
4. If needed, thicken juices with cornstarch mixed with water.
5. Transfer cooled mixture to a bowl.
Step 3: Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F:
– Spray a springform pan with nonstick spray.
– Mix crust ingredients until combined; press into prepared pan.
– Bake for 10 minutes; set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Ensure all cold ingredients are at room temperature:
– Beat softened cream cheese until creamy.
– Add sugar; mix well.
– Incorporate eggs one at a time; then add remaining ingredients until just mixed.
Step 5: Prep Water Bath
Position your springform pan in the center of the oven on a rack:
– Place a roasting pan beneath it filled with boiling water to create steam during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 90 minutes:
– Look for slightly raised edges and a wobbly center when done.
Step 7: Cool & Chill
After baking:
– Let cheesecake cool in oven for an hour before refrigerating for at least six hours.
Step 8: Make Crumble Topping
Preheat oven again to 350°F:
– Combine dry topping ingredients; cut in butter until crumbly.
– Spread on parchment-lined sheet; bake until golden brown.
Step 9: Make Salted Caramel Sauce
Follow your favorite recipe for salted caramel sauce; let cool.
Step 10: Prepare Apple Pie Topping
Repeat steps from apple filling using thicker slices if desired.
Step 11: Serve + Store
Top chilled cheesecake with apple topping, crumble, and drizzle with salted caramel. Slice and enjoy!
Step 12: Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare components like apple filling or crumble in advance to save time on serving day.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Serving your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake can elevate the experience, making it even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert.
Classic Serving
- Serve slices of cheesecake on individual plates with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra touch.
A La Mode
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream beside each slice for a creamy contrast.
- Drizzle additional warm caramel sauce over the ice cream for indulgence.
Festive Platter
- Arrange slices on a large platter decorated with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
- Add small bowls of extra caramel sauce and whipped cream for guests to top their servings.
With Hot Beverages
- Pair slices with hot cider or spiced coffee for a cozy fall treat.
- Offer cinnamon sticks as stirrers to enhance the flavor.
Mini Portions
- Cut cheesecake into smaller squares and serve them in cupcake liners for bite-sized treats.
- This is great for parties or gatherings where guests want to sample multiple desserts.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
- Water Bath Method: Using a water bath helps maintain moisture in the oven, preventing cracks and ensuring a creamy texture.
- Cool Gradually: Allow your cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven after baking. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
- Chill Overnight: For best results, refrigerate your cheesecake overnight before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Complementing your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake with side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Consider these tasty options:
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, homemade whipped cream adds a lovely texture alongside the rich cheesecake.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pastry Twists: These sweet, crunchy twists are perfect for dipping into extra caramel sauce.
- Caramelized Pecans: Sweet, crunchy pecans add an appealing crunch and flavor that matches beautifully with the cheesecake.
- Spiced Applesauce: A warm side of spiced applesauce enhances the apple flavors in the cheesecake while adding moisture.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast, balancing out the sweet elements of the dessert.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal beverage pairs perfectly with fall flavors, creating a cozy dessert atmosphere.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can prevent your cheesecake from mixing properly. Always ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
- Overbaking the cheesecake: Baking too long can dry out the cheesecake. Keep an eye on it and aim for a slight wobble in the center when done.
- Not cooling properly: Letting your cheesecake cool slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks. Follow the cooling instructions closely for best results.
- Skipping the water bath: A water bath keeps the temperature even and prevents overbaking. Don’t skip this crucial step!
- Using the wrong apples: Choose firm apples that hold their shape, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the filling to achieve the best flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Ensure it is fully cooled before covering to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid, until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake.
Can I make salted caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare salted caramel sauce up to 5 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
What apples are best for this cheesecake?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well. They maintain their shape during cooking and provide great flavor.
How do I customize my salted caramel apple pie cheesecake?
You can add nuts or substitute different spices based on your taste preferences. Consider adding crushed pecans or walnuts for extra crunch!
Can I use a different crust for the cheesecake?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is traditional, you can use Oreos or shortbread cookies instead for a unique twist.
How long should I chill my cheesecake before serving?
It is ideal to chill your cheesecake for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best to ensure it’s set perfectly.
Final Thoughts
The Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is an irresistible treat that beautifully combines flavors of fall with creamy cheesecake goodness. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices! Whether for Thanksgiving or any special gathering, this dessert will impress everyone at your table!
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate fall dessert with our Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! This luxurious treat seamlessly blends the warm flavors of classic apple pie with a creamy cheesecake twist, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. A luscious layer of caramelized apples, a buttery oat crumble topping, and a rich salted caramel drizzle elevate this dessert to showstopper status. Each slice is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor that will leave your guests craving more. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just enjoying a sweet evening at home, this cheesecake will impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 1–2 tbsp apple cider
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 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
- 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup + 3 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 32 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup cold salted butter, cubed
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed (for caramel)
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream
- pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare a springform pan by spraying it with nonstick spray.
- For the apple filling, cook sliced apples with butter, sugar, and spices until tender. Set aside.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter to form the crust, press into the bottom of the prepared pan, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth; add eggs one at a time followed by sour cream and spices. Pour over the crust.
- Place in a water bath and bake for about 90 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly wobbly.
- Cool in the oven then refrigerate for at least six hours before serving with apple topping, crumble, and salted caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (128g)
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
