Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of apple pie and the creamy richness of cheesecake with a luxurious salted caramel drizzle. This indulgent creation is perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to family celebrations, and it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests. Imagine a creamy cheesecake layered between spiced apple filling and a crunchy crumble topping, all tucked into a graham cracker crust. It’s an unforgettable treat that everyone will rave about!

What Makes This Dessert a Must-Try?

You’ll love this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake for several reasons. First, it beautifully merges two beloved desserts into one: the beloved apple pie and the classic cheesecake. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dessert experience unlike any other. It’s rich yet balanced, sweet yet comforting, making it great for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth after dinner.

"This cheesecake is everything I hoped it would be — creamy, delicious, and with a perfect hint of apple flavor. The salted caramel on top elevates it to a whole new level!" – Happy Baker

Preparing Your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Creating this masterpiece may seem daunting, but it’s easier than you might think! The process involves several steps: making a luscious apple filling, preparing the buttery graham cracker crust, whipping up the cheesecake base, and layering it all together. It’s a delightful baking adventure that will have your kitchen filled with delicious aromas and your heart full of anticipation.

Key Ingredients you’ll need

To create your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake, gather the following 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:

  • 32 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature (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 cornstarch
  • 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare:
   First and foremost, read through the entire recipe before you start — visualizing the steps can help set you up for success. This cheesecake has multiple elements, and breaking down the tasks can make it manageable. You can even prepare some components ahead.

2. Make the Apple Filling:
   Peel and slice your apples into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick pieces. Combine all apple filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Cook for about 8-14 minutes, stirring gently until the apples are tender. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a splash of cider or water. If not thickened to your liking, combine cornstarch and water, stir into the apples, and cook until thick (about 30-60 seconds). Let cool.

3. Prepare the Crust:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and ensure the bottom is secure. Mix the crust ingredients in a bowl and press firmly into the bottom (and slightly up the sides) of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside and keep the oven on.

4. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   Let all cold ingredients come to room temperature. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and blend well. Introduce the eggs one at a time, mixing between each addition. Finally, add in the vanilla, cornstarch, sour cream, and spices, mixing until just incorporated.

5. Assemble the Layers:
   Pour half the cheesecake batter into the crust, then layer the apple filling evenly on top. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter, smoothing the top with an offset spatula.

6. Set Up the Water Bath:
   Place the cheesecake on a rack in the center of the oven, and prepare a water bath as follows: Wrap the base of the cheesecake pan in foil and place it inside a roasting pan filled with boiling water. This will protect the cheesecake from direct heat.

7. Bake:
   Bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 to 1 hour and 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are slightly raised and the center has only a slight wobble. An instant-read thermometer should read 150°F to 155°F.

8. Cool and Chill:
   When done, turn off the oven and leave the door ajar. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.

9. Prepare Crumble Topping:
   For the crumble topping, combine the dry ingredients, cut in the cold butter until crumbly, and bake on a lined sheet pan at 350°F for 12 to 20 minutes until golden.

10. Create the Salted Caramel Sauce:
    Follow the recipe for a quick salted caramel sauce, letting it cool before using.

11. Make Apple Pie Topping:
    Follow the same steps as the apple filling, but adjust the cooking time as needed.

12. Serve:
    Top your chilled cheesecake with the apple pie topping, sprinkle generously with crumble topping, and drizzle with salted caramel. Slice and enjoy!

Creative Ways to Serve It

When it comes to serving this decadent cheesecake, presentation is key! Consider doing the following:

• Serve on a beautiful cake stand, garnished with fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Add a drizzle of the caramel sauce on the plate for an elegant touch.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store your leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake properly:

• Refrigerate: Cover with plastic wrap or foil and keep in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 3-5 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 2-3 months. Use an airtight container and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Pro Chef Tips for Success

• Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Don’t rush cooling times. Cooling in the oven and chilling in the fridge helps improve texture and flavor.
• Use a water bath to prevent cracks; it keeps the cheesecake moist and creamy.

Fun Variations to Try

This recipe offers plenty of room for creativity! Consider:

• Adding different spices like ginger or cardamom to the apple filling for a unique flavor.
• Swapping out the salted caramel for chocolate sauce or a berry compote for something different.
• Trying different nuts in the crumble, like pecans or almonds, for added texture and flavor.

Your Questions Answered

1. What’s the prep time for this recipe?
   Expect to spend about 30 minutes prepping all the ingredients. The baking time will take an additional 1.5 to 2 hours, plus cooling and chilling time.

2. Can I substitute low-fat cream cheese?
   While low-fat options can work, full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and richness. For best results, stick to full-fat.

3. How can I tell when the cheesecake is fully baked?
   Check for slight firmness at the edges and a slight wobble in the center for perfect doneness. An internal temperature of around 150-155°F is ideal.

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave your guests enchanted. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself, this cheesecake is bound to become a favorite recipe!

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

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A decadent dessert that combines the comforting flavors of apple pie and creamy cheesecake, topped with luxurious salted caramel.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins

Total Time 6 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Cheesecake, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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For the Apple Filling

• 4 medium medium apples sliced, approximately 588 grams
• 3 tbsp salted butter approximately 42 grams
• 1-2 tbsp apple cider
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed approximately 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 approximately 300 grams
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted approximately 155 grams

For the Cheesecake

• 32 oz cream cheese at room temperature, full-fat, block style
• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar approximately 308 grams
• 4 large eggs at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 tsp cornstarch
• 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream at room temperature, approximately 180 grams
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour approximately 33 grams

For the Crumble Topping

• 1/2 cup whole rolled oats approximately 48 grams
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed approximately 55 grams
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup cold salted butter, cubed 4 tbsp or approximately 57 grams

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup granulated sugar approximately 210 grams
• 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed approximately 85 grams
• 1/2 cup heavy cream approximately 135 grams
• 1 pinch flaky sea salt

Method

 

Preparation

1. Read through the entire recipe before starting to visualize the tasks.

Make the Apple Filling

1. Peel and slice the apples into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick pieces. Combine all apple filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Cook for about 8-14 minutes, stirring gently until the apples are tender.
2. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a splash of cider or water. If not thickened to your liking, combine cornstarch and water, stir into the apples, and cook until thick (about 30-60 seconds). Let cool.

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray.
2. Mix the crust ingredients in a bowl and press firmly into the bottom (and slightly up the sides) of the pan.
3. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside and keep the oven on.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Let all cold ingredients come to room temperature. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and blend well. Introduce the eggs one at a time, mixing between each addition.
3. Finally, add in the vanilla, cornstarch, sour cream, and spices, mixing until just incorporated.

Assemble the Layers

1. Pour half the cheesecake batter into the crust, then layer the apple filling evenly on top.
2. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter, smoothing the top with an offset spatula.

Set Up the Water Bath

1. Place the cheesecake on a rack in the center of the oven and wrap the base of the cheesecake pan in foil.
2. Place it inside a roasting pan filled with boiling water to protect it from direct heat.

Bake

1. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 to 1 hour and 50 minutes.
2. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are slightly raised and the center has only a slight wobble. An instant-read thermometer should read 150°F to 155°F.

Cool and Chill

1. When done, turn off the oven and leave the door ajar. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour.
2. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.

Prepare Crumble Topping

1. Combine the dry ingredients for the crumble topping, cut in the cold butter until crumbly, and bake on a lined sheet pan at 350°F for 12 to 20 minutes until golden.

Create the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. Follow the recipe for a quick salted caramel sauce, letting it cool before using.

Serve

1. Top your chilled cheesecake with the apple pie topping, sprinkle generously with crumble topping, and drizzle with salted caramel.
2. Slice and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 6gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 17gSodium: 320mgFiber: 2gSugar: 34g

Notes

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or freeze slices for up to 2-3 months.

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