Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a delicious dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the flavors of sweet caramel and apples. Here’s how you can make this mouthwatering treat!
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Apple Topping:
- 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a uniform crust.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and beat until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and a slight jiggle remains in the middle.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then, transfer it to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Apple Topping:
- In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Remove from heat and allow the apple mixture to cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Caramel Apple Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Top the cheesecake with the caramelized apples and drizzle with caramel sauce.
6. Serve:
- Slice and serve your Caramel Apple Cheesecake chilled. Enjoy the creamy, tangy filling, the buttery graham cracker crust, and the sweet, spiced apples topped with rich caramel sauce!
Tips:
- Apple Variations: You can use any variety of apples, such as Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness.
- Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent touch, use homemade caramel sauce (cook sugar and butter together until golden, then add cream) or your favorite store-bought option.
- Chill Overnight: For the best texture and flavor, allow the cheesecake to chill overnight to let the flavors meld.
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is the perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and tart—ideal for fall gatherings or any special occasion! 🍏🍰🍯
