Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! This delightful treat combines the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling—all resting on a crispy graham cracker crust. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy get-togethers, or simply enjoying at home on a chilly evening.

What makes this recipe so special is its ability to impress without the fuss of traditional pie-making. You can savor all the deliciousness of apple pie in cheesecake form, which means every bite is a sweet reminder of festive autumn gatherings. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of salted caramel and spiced apples creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable even for beginner bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this creamy cheesecake topped with warm apple goodness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare various components in advance, making it an excellent option for busy hosts during the holiday season.
• Showstopper Dessert: This cheesecake not only tastes fantastic but looks stunning when served, making it ideal for special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Let’s dive into what you need:

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 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

Variations

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Change up the Apples: Use different varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for varied flavor profiles.
• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping for added texture.
• Switch Up Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom to give it your unique twist.
• Drizzle More Toppings: Feel free to add extra caramel sauce or even chocolate drizzle on top before serving!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before diving in, take some time to read through the entire recipe. This way, you know what’s coming next and can gather everything you need. If you’re short on time, remember that many elements can be prepped ahead!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your apples into manageable pieces—about ¼ to ½ inch thick works perfectly. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine those lovely apple slices with butter, cider, brown sugar, and spices. Cook them gently until they soften just right—this takes about 8-14 minutes. If it gets too dry while cooking, don’t hesitate to add a splash more cider or water. Once tender and fragrant, thicken with cornstarch mixed with water if needed. Transfer this delicious filling to a bowl and let it cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a good spray with non-stick spray—trust me; we want easy release later! Mix together your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan and up the sides slightly. Bake for just 10 minutes and then set aside while keeping that oven nice and hot!

Step 4: Make Your Cheesecake Filling

Let’s get creamy! Ensure all your cold ingredients are at room temperature first; this helps achieve that smooth texture we’re after. Beat your softened cream cheese until it’s fluffy—about 1-2 minutes should do it! Gradually add in sugar and mix well before adding eggs one at a time. Then stir in vanilla extract, cornstarch, sour cream, and spices until just blended.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cheesecake

Pour half of your cheesecake batter into that beautiful crust you’ve made. Spoon over your cooled apple filling evenly across the top. Gently pour on the rest of your cheesecake batter and smooth out any bumps with an offset spatula.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Now we’re going to protect our cheesecake from direct heat by creating a water bath! Place your cheesecake on an oven rack positioned in the center of your preheated oven while placing a roasting pan below it filled with boiling water—about halfway up should do it! This step keeps our cheesecake creamy.

Step 7: Bake Your Cheesecake

Time to bake! Set a timer for about an hour and thirty minutes but check at around an hour mark. The edges should be slightly raised while the center retains just a slight wobble when done!

Step 8: Cool & Chill

Once baked perfectly, turn off that oven but leave the door cracked open to let it cool gradually inside for about an hour—this helps prevent cracks! Transfer it carefully onto a wire rack once cool enough to handle. Cover with foil after completely cooling down and refrigerate—ideally overnight—for best results!

Step 9: Make Your Crumble Topping

While waiting for your cheesecake to chill out in the fridge, preheat your oven again to 350°F for about ten minutes before baking those delicious oats! Mix flour with oats, brown sugar, salt & cinnamon before cutting in cold butter until crumbly. Bake until golden brown—around 12-20 minutes—and let cool completely.

Step 10: Create Your Salted Caramel Sauce

Using my trusty salted caramel sauce recipe makes this step super easy! Follow along there as I guide you through making luscious caramel goodness.

Step 11: Finish Up with Apple Pie Topping

Repeat similar steps from earlier by cooking up another batch of spiced apple filling if desired—but feel free to use leftovers from before too! Allow cooling again afterward.

Step 12: Serve & Enjoy!

Top off each slice generously with crumble topping followed by warm apple pie topping drizzled beautifully over everything else—and don’t forget that homemade salted caramel sauce last minute sprinkle! Slice away…and enjoy every creamy bite!

With these steps mastered under your belt—and love infused throughout—you’ve created something truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Creating the perfect cheesecake can seem daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to dessert success!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with room temperature cream cheese and eggs helps to ensure a smooth batter that blends easily, avoiding lumps and creating that creamy texture we all crave.

• Don’t rush the baking process: Baking your cheesecake slowly in a water bath prevents cracks and helps maintain moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that velvety finish.

• Cool gradually: After baking, letting your cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar helps prevent sudden temperature changes that could lead to cracks on the surface.

• Make ahead for the best flavor: Allowing your cheesecake to chill overnight enhances its flavor and texture. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together beautifully!

• Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! While salted caramel and apple pie filling are delightful, consider adding nuts or whipped coconut cream for an extra touch.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Serving this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here’s how you can impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A light, airy topping that adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the cheesecake.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: These add a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty flavors of the crumble topping.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds warmth and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the richness of the cheesecake with its creamy simplicity.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the dessert.
• Spiced Chai Tea: Offering a warm cup of spiced chai can enhance the flavor experience, bringing cozy autumn spices into play.
• Hot Chocolate: For those cooler evenings, serving hot chocolate alongside provides a comforting companion to this indulgent dessert.

With these tips and suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create and serve an unforgettable Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make components ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dessert with minimal fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cheesecake slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you have unassembled components, keep them separately stored: apple filling and crumble topping in airtight containers in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice the cheesecake before freezing, allowing you to thaw only what you need.

Reheating

• Thaw the cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• If you prefer a warm slice, microwave it for about 15-20 seconds or until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to preserve creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a commercial egg replacer to achieve a similar texture.

How long does Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake last?

If stored properly in the fridge, this cheesecake will last for about 5 days. Just make sure it’s covered well!

Can I use different types of apples for this cheesecake?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast to sweetness, feel free to mix varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a more complex flavor.

What is the best way to serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

Serve chilled with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top and a sprinkle of crumble for added texture. It’s also delightful with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy each creamy, caramel-infused bite and let me know how it turns out. Happy baking!