Heavenly Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe for Fall

Crafting a decadent salted caramel apple pie cheesecake requires passion and culinary creativity that will make dessert lovers swoon.

Sweet-tart apples dance beautifully with rich cream cheese layers in this extraordinary treat.

Caramel ribbons weave through creamy textures, creating a masterpiece that beckons from the plate.

Crisp autumn memories flood back with each silky bite of this indulgent dessert.

Buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect foundation for layers of tantalizing flavor.

Seasonal ingredients merge into a symphony of comfort and elegance that surprises and delights.

You won’t be able to resist cutting into this show-stopping confection that promises pure deliciousness.

Prepare to fall in love with a dessert that transforms an ordinary evening into something magical.

Why Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Is A Showstopper

• Craft a Decadent Dessert: Blend the classic comfort of apple pie with the creamy richness of cheesecake for a show-stopping treat that elevates traditional desserts.
• Master Stress-Free Baking: Follow simple step-by-step instructions that guide even novice bakers through creating a professional-looking dessert with minimal technical skills required.
• Impress with Gourmet Flair: Surprise guests with a sophisticated dessert that combines multiple flavor profiles – sweet caramel, tangy apples, and rich cream cheese – creating a memorable culinary experience.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting spices, using different apple varieties, or experimenting with alternative toppings to suit personal taste preferences and make the dessert uniquely yours.

Must-Have Ingredients For Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, golden texture.
• Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to enhance the crust's flavor.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its smooth, creamy texture and tangy flavor.
• Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and adds sweetness.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake filling together.
• Sour Cream: Contributes to the creamy texture and adds a subtle tangy note.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet aroma.
• Salt: Balances and deepens the other flavors in the filling.

• Apples: Provide a fresh, slightly tart layer that complements the rich cheesecake.
• Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: Create a warm, spiced flavor for the apple layer.
• Flour: Helps thicken the apple mixture and prevent excess moisture.
• Lemon Juice: Prevents apple browning and adds a bright, citrusy note.
• Granulated Sugar, Water: The base for creating the caramel sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the caramel.
• Butter: Provides a silky texture and rich flavor to the caramel.
• Sea Salt Flakes: Adds a final touch of flavor contrast and visual appeal.

How To Whip Up Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Warm up the oven to 325°F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan’s bottom to form a solid base.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Whip the Cheesecake Base

In a large mixer, blend cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix the ingredients.

Step 5: Add Creamy Elements

Gently incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing carefully after each addition. Fold in sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt until just combined.

Step 6: Pour the Cheesecake Mixture

Transfer the creamy mixture over the cooled crust. Smooth the top using a spatula to create an even surface.

Step 7: Prepare the Apple Topping

• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Flour
• Lemon juice

Mix well to prevent apple browning and enhance flavor.

Step 8: Layer the Apples

Carefully distribute the seasoned apple mixture evenly across the cheesecake filling.

Step 9: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake for 60-70 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 10: Rest the Cheesecake

Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest for 1 hour to prevent cracking.

Step 11: Create Luxurious Caramel Sauce

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat sugar and water without stirring until it turns golden amber.

Step 12: Finish the Caramel

Remove from heat and slowly whisk in cream. Add butter and sea salt, stirring until smooth and glossy.

Step 13: Chill the Cheesecake

Refrigerate the cheesecake completely for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly.

Step 14: Add Final Touches

Before serving, drizzle the prepared caramel sauce over the cheesecake and sprinkle sea salt flakes on top.

Step 15: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled, savoring the rich layers of flavors and textures.

Tips To Get Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Just Right

• Prevent Crust Crumbling: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid, compact base that holds together when slicing.
• Manage Apple Browning: Toss diced apples with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and maintain their fresh, crisp appearance during baking.
• Control Cheesecake Texture: Mix cream cheese gently and avoid overmixing to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency without air bubbles.
• Crack-Free Cheesecake Method: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked open, reducing temperature shock and preventing surface cracks.
• Balance Caramel Flavor: Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top of the caramel sauce to enhance the sweet-salty profile and add a gourmet touch to the dessert.

Flavor Combos To Try With Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

• Seasonal Spice Sensation: Replace traditional apples with pears and add warm nutmeg and cardamom for a cozy autumn-inspired cheesecake experience.
• Berry Caramel Fusion: Swap apples with mixed berries like raspberries and blackberries, creating a tangy and sweet flavor profile that complements the rich caramel.
• Chocolate Lover's Dream: Incorporate cocoa powder into the crust and mix chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter, then top with chocolate caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert.
• Nutty Crunch Edition: Blend chopped pecans or almonds into the graham cracker crust and sprinkle toasted nuts over the caramel drizzle for added texture and depth of flavor.

Tasty Matches For Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

• Pair with Sweet Riesling: Select a chilled, slightly sweet German Riesling that complements the dessert's caramel and apple notes, balancing the rich cheesecake's creamy texture.
• Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Add a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream alongside the slice, creating a luxurious contrast between warm caramel and cold, smooth dairy.
• Match with Chai Spiced Tea: Brew a warm chai tea with cinnamon and cardamom undertones that mirror the apple pie spices in the cheesecake, enhancing the dessert's warm flavor profile.
• Accompany with Salted Caramel Latte: Prepare a smooth espresso-based latte topped with salted caramel drizzle, echoing the dessert's sweet and salty elements while providing a complementary caffeine boost.

How To Store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Without A Mess

• Wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Place the cheesecake in a deep, sealed container to protect its delicate texture and prevent moisture loss.
• Slice the cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each piece separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to slowly defrost while preserving its creamy consistency and preventing texture breakdown.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Questions Answered

• Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results. These varieties hold their shape during baking and provide a nice balance to the sweet caramel.

• How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Follow the recipe’s cooling instructions carefully. Letting the cheesecake rest in the oven with the door cracked after baking helps prevent cracks by cooling it slowly and evenly.

• Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

Yes, a springform pan is crucial for this recipe. It allows you to remove the cheesecake easily without damaging its delicate structure and beautiful apple topping.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes to overnight
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Salted caramel apple pie cheesecake marries classic dessert flavors in a mouthwatering masterpiece that redefines indulgence. Creamy cheesecake layers, spiced apple filling, and rich caramel sauce promise pure dessert bliss you’ll savor with every delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Apple Topping:

• 4 medium apples (preferably granny smith)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp sea salt

Garnish:

• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• 2 tbsp sea salt flakes

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined, then press firmly into the pan’s bottom to create an even crust.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool completely while preparing the filling.
4. Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large mixer until smooth and creamy, avoiding overmixing.
5. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition, then fold in sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt until just combined.
6. Pour cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Peel and dice apples, then toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and lemon juice to prevent browning.
8. Carefully arrange seasoned apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake filling.
9. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
10. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake rest for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
11. For caramel sauce, heat sugar and water in a heavy-bottomed pan without stirring until it turns golden amber.
12. Remove from heat, slowly whisk in cream, then add butter and sea salt, stirring until smooth.
13. Cool cheesecake completely in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
14. Before serving, drizzle with prepared caramel sauce and sprinkle sea salt flakes on top.
15. Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the rich layers of flavors and textures.

Notes

• Prevent apple browning by tossing diced apples with lemon juice immediately after cutting to maintain fresh, vibrant color.
• Achieve smooth, crack-free cheesecake by avoiding overmixing, using room temperature ingredients, and allowing gradual cooling in the oven.
• Customize caramel sauce thickness by adjusting cooking time – shorter for thinner sauce, longer for more robust, deep-flavored caramel.
• Enhance dairy-free options by substituting cream cheese with cashew or almond-based alternatives and using plant-based butter in the caramel sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 70-80 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 48 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg