Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to impress friends and family this fall, look no further than this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! It’s a delightful way to celebrate the cozy season with flavors that remind you of warm apple pie but in a creamy cheesecake form. This recipe is not just delicious; it effortlessly combines the best of both worlds, making it suitable for cozy family gatherings or holiday feasts. Plus, it’ll make your kitchen smell heavenly!

I love how this cake captures the essence of autumn with caramelized apples, a buttery oat crumble, and that irresistible drizzle of salted caramel sauce. It’s a treat that’s sure to bring smiles and happy memories to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly delicious: The combination of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easier than pie: You’ll get all the flavors of apple pie without the fuss of a traditional crust!
• Make-ahead magic: Perfect for busy days; many components can be prepared in advance.
• Family-approved: This dessert is a surefire hit with everyone—kids and adults alike!
• Stunning presentation: With its layers and toppings, it looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor in your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Gather these up, and let’s get started on this amazing treat!

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 corn starch
• 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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun ideas to tailor it to your taste:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Swap the fruit: Try using pears or even berries for a different flavor profile.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust if you need a gluten-free option.
• Spice it up: Add more spices like ginger or cardamom to give it an extra kick!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before diving into making this decadent cheesecake, take time to read through the entire recipe. This helps you gather all your ingredients and understand each step. Prepping ahead makes the process smoother.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your apples into thick pieces. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients. Cook for about 8-14 minutes until they reach desired tenderness. If things start drying out too much, splash in some cider or water. To thicken the filling if necessary, mix cornstarch with water until dissolved and add it while stirring until thickened.

Step 3: Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying it with nonstick spray. Mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of your pan and slightly up the sides. Bake for about 10 minutes then set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Ensure all your cream cheese is at room temperature before starting—this helps achieve that smooth texture we want! Beat softened cream cheese until creamy; gradually mix in sugar before adding eggs one by one. Incorporate vanilla extract along with sour cream and spices until everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Layer It Up!

Start assembling by pouring half of your cheesecake batter into your baked crust. Spoon an even layer of apple filling over this batter followed by pouring on the rest of the cheesecake mixture on top.

Step 6: Set Up Water Bath

To keep your cheesecake creamy while baking, set it on a rack in the center of your oven above a roasting pan filled with boiling water. This method prevents any direct heat from drying out our lovely dessert.

Step 7: Bake It Perfectly

Bake for around 90 minutes; you’ll know it’s done when edges are slightly raised but still have that gentle wobble in the middle. After baking time is complete, turn off oven heat and crack open the door while letting it cool slowly inside.

Step 8: Chill Your Cheesecake

Once cooled enough to handle safely, remove from oven. Let cool completely at room temp before wrapping in foil and refrigerating for at least six hours—or ideally overnight—to develop those flavors fully!

Step 9: Make Crumble Topping

While waiting for cheesecake to chill, whip up that crumble topping! Whisk together dry ingredients then cut in cold butter until crumbly texture forms. Bake on lined sheet pan until golden brown—about 12-20 minutes—and let cool completely.

Step 10: Whip Up Salted Caramel Sauce

Prepare my quick Salted Caramel Sauce according to my recipe so it’s ready just as you finish chilling everything else!

Step 11: Finish It Off!

Once everything has cooled down nicely—top cheesecake with apple pie filling followed by generous sprinkling of crumble topping plus drizzling over that luscious salted caramel sauce.

Step 12: Slice & Enjoy!

Slice up those beautiful pieces of cheesecake goodness! Share these slices around with loved ones—you’ll see smiles all around as they savor every bite!

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is bound to become your new favorite dessert recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Creating this delightful cheesecake can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter that bakes evenly.

• Don’t Skip the Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps regulate the temperature and prevents cracking. The moisture keeps the cheesecake creamy and luscious!

• Let it Chill: Patience is key! Allowing your cheesecake to chill for at least 6 hours (or overnight) enhances its flavor and texture, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cheesecake as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so look for slight wobble in the center when it’s done.

• Cool Gradually: After baking, let your cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This gradual cooling process helps reduce the chances of cracks forming on the surface.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

This exquisite dessert isn’t just about taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some creative ideas for serving your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake that will wow your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich cheesecake.
• Toasted Nuts: Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide an extra crunch and enhance the flavor profile.
• Cinnamon Dust: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or pumpkin spice over the top gives a nod to fall flavors and looks beautiful.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cheesecake while adding creamy richness.
• Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Serve with additional salted caramel sauce on the side for those who love an extra sweet kick!
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cheesecake and adds vibrant color to your plate.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing this dessert with a rich coffee or spiced tea creates a comforting finish to any meal. The warm beverage enhances the flavors beautifully!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is not only a showstopper for your dessert table but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare various components in advance, making it easier to assemble when you’re ready to enjoy this delightful treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best taste, consume within the first few days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store wrapped slices in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, serve chilled directly from the fridge.
• If you prefer it warm, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Be cautious not to overheat, as it may alter the texture of the cheesecake.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare both the apple filling and caramel sauce in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. The cheesecake itself is best made a day ahead and chilled overnight for optimal flavor.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use coconut cream or any non-dairy cream substitute. Just ensure that whatever you choose has a similar consistency for best results.

How long does Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake last?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, this cheesecake can last up to 5 days. If frozen, it retains its quality for about 2 months.

Can I use different types of apples for this cheesecake?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, feel free to mix varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness and flavor complexity.

Is there an alternative to graham cracker crust?

Certainly! You can substitute traditional graham crackers with crushed digestive biscuits or gluten-free cookies if you have dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is truly something special—an exquisite blend of flavors that captures the essence of fall while remaining comforting and indulgent. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you! Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings; your creativity will only enhance this delightful dessert. Happy baking!