Description
This Indulgent Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert perfect for apple lovers. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling swirled with sweet apple pie filling and caramel sauce, it’s baked to perfection and topped with fresh apples and extra caramel for a delightful finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup apple pie filling
Garnish
- 1 apple, chopped
- Crumbled graham crackers
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even crust layer to serve as the cheesecake base.
- Prepare the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then combine vanilla extract and sour cream with the mixture until fully incorporated.
- Layer the cheesecake: Pour half of the cheesecake batter evenly over the crust. Spoon the apple pie filling on top and drizzle with caramel sauce. Carefully pour the remaining batter over the apple and caramel layer, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are lightly browned. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Chill the cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven once cooled and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly and develop flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, top the cheesecake with chopped apples, crumbled graham crackers, and drizzle extra caramel sauce over the surface for an indulgent finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter and to avoid lumps.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake long enough to ensure it sets firmly for cleaner slices.
- If preferred, use homemade caramel sauce for extra richness and flavor.
- To cut clean slices, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
