Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to impress your family and friends, look no further than this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. It combines two beloved favorites into one decadent treat that’s sure to steal the show at any gathering. Imagine a creamy vanilla cinnamon cheesecake nestled between layers of warm, spiced apples and topped with a buttery oat crumble and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Honestly, who could resist?

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weeknight dessert or serving it at a festive family gathering, this cheesecake will shine on any table. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those fall apples that are in abundance this time of year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can create this masterpiece.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: It’s a delightful combination of flavors that your loved ones will rave about!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare various components in advance, making serving a breeze.
• Impressive Presentation: This cheesecake looks stunning on any dessert table, making it perfect for special occasions.
• Rich Flavors: The blend of caramelized apples and creamy cheesecake creates an irresistible flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple and wholesome ingredients to create your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. They come together beautifully to make this dessert truly special.

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 corn starch
• 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 the Apple Pie Topping

Repeat some ingredients used earlier:
– 4 medium apples (588 to 625 grams)
– 3 tbsp salted butter (42 grams)
– 1-2 tbsp apple cider
– 1/3 cup 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
– 2 tsp water
– 2 tsp cornstarch

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the Apples: Use different varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for varied sweetness and tartness.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch in your crumble topping.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
• Use a Different Crust: Switch up the crust by using chocolate cookie crumbs for a rich chocolatey flavor.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you dive in, take a moment to read through the entire recipe. This ensures you have everything ready and makes the process smoother. Trust me; it’s worth taking that extra time!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your apples into bite-sized pieces—about ¼ to ½ inch thick works well. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients. Cook until tender—this usually takes about 8 to 14 minutes. Stir occasionally and add a splash of cider or water if needed to keep things saucy! If your filling isn’t thickening as desired after cooking, mix cornstarch with water and stir that into your apple mixture on heat until thickened.

Step 3: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray. Mix together your crust ingredients in a bowl then press into the bottom—and slightly up the sides—of your prepared pan. Bake for about ten minutes until golden brown. Once done, set aside while keeping your oven preheated.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Let’s get creamy! Beat softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth—about one or two minutes should do it. Gradually add sugar and mix well before incorporating each egg one by one until just blended. Add vanilla extract along with sour cream and spices; mix gently until combined but don’t overbeat!

Step 5: Assemble Cheesecake Layers

Pour half of that luscious batter into your baked crust first. Then spoon on that fabulous apple filling evenly across the top before adding on more cheesecake batter! Smooth out that last layer carefully so everything is nice and even.

Step 6: Prepare Water Bath

To help maintain moisture while baking—and avoid cracks—set your cheesecake pan on an oven rack positioned in the center of the oven above a roasting pan filled with boiling water below it. This method keeps things creamy!

Step 7: Bake Your Cheesecake

Bake for about one hour thirty minutes to one hour fifty minutes—or until edges are slightly raised with only slight wobbling in center when jiggled gently! Use an instant thermometer inserted halfway down into center—it should read between150°F -155°F when done.

Step 8: Cool & Chill Your Creation

Once finished baking turn off heat but let cheesecake cool inside oven with door cracked open for one hour—that helps prevent cracking too! Afterward transfer it onto wire rack to cool completely at room temp before chilling overnight wrapped tightly with foil.

Step 9: Make Crumble Topping

While cooling down you can prepare crumble topping by whisking together flour oats brown sugar salt & cinnamon then cutting cold butter into mixture until crumbly texture forms! Spread evenly onto parchment-lined sheet pan & bake till golden—around fifteen minutes while stirring halfway through!

Step 10: Prepare Salted Caramel Sauce

For this sweet addition follow my quick ten-minute Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe—it’s super easy! Just let cool completely after making before drizzling atop chilled cheesecake later.

Step 11: Finish Off with Apple Pie Topping

Similar process as before! Slice those apples thicker this time & cook them similarly till tender adding necessary spices along way then set aside once cooled!

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy

Top cooled cheesecake generously with apple pie topping crumble layer & drizzle warmed caramel sauce over everything before slicing into pieces—get ready for compliments galore!

With its combination of flavors and textures, this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite among family gatherings or cozy nights in! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is an art, but with a few helpful tips, you can ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time!

• Choose the right apples: Using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, will give your cheesecake a balanced flavor that enhances the overall taste.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smoother batter and prevents lumps in your cheesecake.

• Don’t skip the water bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath keeps it moist and helps prevent cracks on the surface. It’s key to achieving that creamy texture everyone loves!

• Cool gradually: After baking, allow your cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven. This gentle cooling process minimizes the risk of cracking and gives you a beautiful finished product.

• Make it ahead of time: If you can, prepare your cheesecake a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes it easier to slice when serving.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Presenting your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake can enhance its appeal and elevate any gathering. Here are some delightful ideas for serving this showstopper!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon just before serving not only looks lovely but also ties in with the warm spices used in the filling.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the cheesecake, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
• Caramel Sauce: Serve additional salted caramel sauce on the side for guests who want even more of that luscious flavor!
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of your dessert and adds a colorful touch to your plate.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as an excellent accompaniment, helping to cut through the richness while enhancing those cozy fall flavors.

With these serving suggestions, your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake will not only taste divine but also look irresistible on any dessert table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, you can easily prepare some components in advance to save time when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a container for easy access.
• Keep any leftover salted caramel sauce in a separate jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid reheating the entire cheesecake at once, as it may affect the texture.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious dessert? Here are some common queries:

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare many elements, such as the apple filling and crumble topping, a day or two before serving. This way, you can simply assemble when you’re ready.

What type of apples work best for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. This combination offers depth and balance.

How long does Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake last?

When properly stored, this cheesecake can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with different types of sweeteners or dairy-free alternatives based on your preferences while keeping an eye on consistency.

Is there a gluten-free option for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

You can use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust to make this recipe gluten-free while still enjoying all those delicious flavors!

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is truly a showstopper! The layers of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and buttery crumble come together for an unforgettable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do. Don’t be shy—try it out and let me know how it turns out!