If you’re looking for a showstopper of a fall dessert that combines the coziness of apples, the lush creaminess of cheesecake, and the irresistible chew of a blondie, this Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake is the ultimate treat you need in your life. Each slice boasts a trio of textures and flavors: a buttery blondie base, a creamy cheesecake center flecked with cinnamon apples, and a glossy caramel drizzle on top. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy weekend, or just because, this decadent dessert is sure to spark joy and constant recipe requests!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of pantry staples can work magic together in this Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s richness, warmth, or sweet apple flavor. Let’s take a closer look at how these simple items transform into something truly spectacular.
- Unsalted butter: Provides a rich, melt-in-your-mouth base for both the blondie crust and luscious apple layer.
- Light brown sugar: Adds the signature caramel undertones and chewy bite to the crust and a subtle molasses flavor to the apples.
- Eggs: Deliver structure and silkiness to both the crust and cheesecake filling, ensuring everything holds together beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, aromatic sweetness that perks up every layer.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the backbone of the blondie base, creating that perfect, fudgy-yet-cakey texture.
- Cinnamon: Infuses both the crust and apple layer with a cozy scent and flavor that says autumn in every bite.
- Salt: Balances all the sweetness and amplifies the underlying flavors.
- Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Give a tart bite and tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the tangy cheesecake layer to just the right level.
- Cream cheese: The star of the show for the cheesecake layer, lending that classic tang and smoothness.
- Sour cream: Adds a hint of tang and extra creaminess to the cheesecake filling.
- Caramel sauce: Crown’s the cheesecake with a shiny, sweet finish — use store-bought or homemade!
- Chopped pecans (optional): Lend a lovely crunch and nutty flavor if you’re a fan.
- Whipped cream (optional): A cloud-like topping that makes each slice extra indulgent.
How to Make Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and giving the sides a light coating of grease. This little bit of prep ensures that your Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake releases like a dream, with neat slices every time.
Step 2: Make the Blondie Crust
Stir your melted butter and brown sugar together until smooth and unified. Add the egg and vanilla, then fold in flour, cinnamon, and salt until just combined. It should look like silky cookie dough! Press this mixture evenly in the pan and bake at 325°F for 15 minutes, just until it’s starting to set and puff. Cool slightly while you get cozy with the apples.
Step 3: Cook the Apple Layer
As your blondie crust bakes, melt a little butter in a skillet on medium heat. Toss in the diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon, letting them sizzle and soften for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for apples that are tender but never mushy — think mini bites of apple pie. Set them aside to cool while you move on.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling
Take your softened cream cheese and beat it with granulated sugar until ultra-smooth and fluffy, so there are no lumps in your Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake. Gently beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla and sour cream. Fold in the cooled, cinnamon-kissed apples and pour this avalanche of goodness over your blondie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for a flawless finish.
Step 5: Bake and Chill
Pop the springform pan back in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the outer edges are set but the center has just a slight wobble. Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour to prevent cracks. Afterward, move it to the fridge for at least four hours, or overnight if you can wait. That’s when the magic happens!
Step 6: Top and Serve
Right before serving, ooze a generous drizzle of caramel sauce over the top and scatter with chopped pecans if you like a little crunch. Each slice will look like a work of art — and taste like pure comfort!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake
Garnishes
For me, the fun truly begins when it’s time to decorate! Drizzle a gorgeous swirl of caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake and sprinkle with chopped pecans for crunch and contrast. A whirl of pillowy whipped cream on each slice makes your Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake look and feel like you’re serving dessert at a fancy bistro.
Side Dishes
Want to turn this dessert into a complete fall feast? Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of hot apple cider for a double dose of cozy. Fresh apple slices or a handful of berries give a pop of freshness alongside all the creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing your Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake into bars, mini squares, or little triangles for a beautiful party platter. Arrange on a rustic wood board with extra caramel on the side for dipping. Or, set out toppings like extra chopped apples, cinnamon, or salted caramel pieces so everyone can create their own perfect bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your cheesecake will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Wrap the springform pan or any leftover slices in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. The flavor actually deepens as the layers mingle — so you may find it even tastier the next day!
Freezing
Need to make your Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake even further in advance? Simply chill it as directed, then transfer individual slices or the whole (well-wrapped) cheesecake to the freezer. It will last up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for a treat.
Reheating
No reheating is required, and in fact, this cheesecake is at its best served chilled! If you like a bit of warmth with your dessert, pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds, but keep an eye on it — you want the caramel soft, not runny cheesecake.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp bring the perfect balance of tartness and crunch, feel free to use whatever apple you have on hand. Just avoid overly soft varieties so the texture holds up during baking.
Can I make this Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The results are still deliciously chewy and satisfying!
Do I have to use a springform pan?
While a springform pan gives you those perfect tall sides and makes unmolding easy, you can use a regular 9-inch cake pan. Just line it well with parchment, and use a “sling” to help lift the cheesecake out.
What kind of caramel sauce works best?
You can use either store-bought or homemade caramel sauce — whatever is easy! Just be sure it’s pourable and not too thick or stiff for drizzling over your Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake.
Can I prepare any steps ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make both the blondie crust and the apple filling a day in advance and store them separately. This makes assembly lightning fast when you’re ready to bake the cheesecake layer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hunting for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, you simply can’t go wrong with this Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake. Whether it’s center stage at your next celebration or the sweet ending to a family dinner, this recipe is always a hit. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends to help, and enjoy every decadent bite!
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Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Caramel Apple Blondie Cheesecake. Layers of rich blondie crust, tender cinnamon apples, creamy cheesecake, and luscious caramel topping come together to create a decadent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the blondie crust:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the apple layer:
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the cheesecake layer:
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
- Make the blondie crust: Mix together butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla. Add flour, cinnamon, and salt, then press into pan and bake.
- Prepare the apple layer: Cook apples with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until tender.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar, add eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Fold in cooled apples and pour over crust.
- Bake: Bake until set, then cool and refrigerate.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with caramel, sprinkle with pecans, and serve with whipped cream.
Notes
- You can make the blondie crust and apple filling a day ahead.
- Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
