Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Fall Dessert – The combination of apples, cinnamon, and caramel is warm and comforting.
Rich and Creamy Texture – The cheesecake filling is ultra-smooth and luxurious.
Homemade Caramel Sauce – Elevates the dessert with its deep, buttery flavor.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared in advance, making it great for entertaining.
Versatile and Customizable – Easily adapted with different fruit toppings or flavored crusts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup heavy cream

For the Apple Topping:

3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup water
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until fully combined.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

Bake for 60-70 minutes or until the center is slightly set.
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

4. Prepare the Apple Topping

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
Add sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender. Let cool.

5. Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water.
Cook without stirring until the sugar turns amber in color.
Remove from heat and carefully whisk in heavy cream, butter, and vanilla.
Let cool slightly before drizzling.

6. Assemble and Serve

Arrange the apple topping over the chilled cheesecake.
Drizzle generously with caramel sauce before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 slices
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours (including chilling time)
Calories: 420 kcal per slice

Variations

Spiced Crust – Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon to the crust mixture for extra warmth.
Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apple topping.
Salted Caramel – Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a sweet-salty contrast.
Apple Pie Cheesecake – Mix cooked apples into the cheesecake batter for an extra apple flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel sauce for a gourmet twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap the cheesecake (without toppings) in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the toppings.
Reheating: Not needed, as this dessert is best served chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! Try using crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or gingersnaps for a unique twist.

2. What are the best apples for this cheesecake?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best as they hold their shape while cooking.

3. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and allow it to cool gradually in the oven.

4. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Yes! It’s best made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. What can I do if my caramel sauce hardens too quickly?

Reheat it gently over low heat, stirring until smooth again.

6. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely! If short on time, a high-quality caramel sauce can work as a substitute.

7. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

8. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture, but low-fat can be used with slight texture differences.

9. Can I make this without a springform pan?

A deep-dish pie pan can work, but slicing will be more challenging.

10. What’s the best way to slice cheesecake cleanly?

Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between slices for neat and smooth cuts.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cheesecake is the perfect blend of rich, creamy cheesecake, warm spiced apples, and sweet caramel. Whether for a holiday dessert or a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Make it ahead, serve it chilled, and enjoy every indulgent bite!