Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the ultimate fusion of flavors with this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! Combining creamy cheesecake, spiced apple filling, and a luscious salted caramel swirl, this dessert is a showstopper for your Thanksgiving feast. Perfectly baked with a crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s a delightful blend of classic apple pie and rich cheesecake that will leave your guests wanting more.
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the epitome of indulgence. It's perfect for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving dinners, where it will surely be the highlight of your dessert table.
A Perfect Combination of Flavors
The Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a culinary masterpiece that harmoniously combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the creamy richness of cheesecake. The delightful spiced apple filling adds a fruity tang that perfectly complements the smooth texture of the cheesecake. Each bite offers a contrasting sensation of creaminess and crunch, making this dessert a true showstopper.
The addition of salted caramel elevates the flavor profile, introducing a luscious sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples. This unique twist not only enhances the overall taste but also creates an irresistible topping that guests will love. The interplay between sweet and salty makes every slice a memorable experience, ideal for gatherings or festive occasions.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While this cheesecake is a standout dessert for Thanksgiving, it’s also perfect for other celebrations. Birthdays, holidays, or even casual get-togethers can benefit from the indulgence of this decadent treat. Its visually appealing layers are sure to impress, and the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone eager to have a slice.
This dessert not only shines in taste but also serves as a conversation starter at the table. Guests will appreciate the creativity and effort behind its creation, prompting compliments and perhaps requests for the recipe. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating your family, this cheesecake is an unforgettable addition to your dessert lineup.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake turns out perfectly every time, use room temperature ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs. This helps in achieving a smooth and creamy batter without lumps. Be gentle when mixing to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks on the surface as it bakes.
When preparing the salted caramel, keep a close eye as the sugar melts to avoid burning. It’s essential to whisk continuously for a smooth consistency. Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of sea salt according to your taste preferences; this customization can turn an excellent dessert into an extraordinary one.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Apple Filling
- 3 cups diced apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Salted Caramel
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Gather all ingredients to get started!
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the Apple Filling
In a bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the apples evenly, then set aside.
Prepare the Cheesecake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
Layer the Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust, followed by a layer of the spiced apple mixture. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Prepare the Caramel
In a saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted and golden. Carefully add butter and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Stir in sea salt.
Finish the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake is cool, drizzle with salted caramel before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Slice and serve chilled!
Storing Your Cheesecake
Once your cheesecake has chilled for at least four hours, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you're preparing it ahead of time, it's best to add the salted caramel just before serving to maintain its rich flavor and glossy finish.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the indulgence. Freshly grated nutmeg or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also be delightful toppings, adding a warm, aromatic touch that aligns with the cozy flavors of the pie.
For a more elegant presentation, consider garnishing each slice with thin apple slices, drizzles of extra salted caramel, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. These finishing touches not only make the dessert more visually appealing but also provide an additional layer of flavor for your guests to savor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
→ What apples are best for baking?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples are great choices for this recipe.
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Experience the ultimate fusion of flavors with this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! Combining creamy cheesecake, spiced apple filling, and a luscious salted caramel swirl, this dessert is a showstopper for your Thanksgiving feast. Perfectly baked with a crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s a delightful blend of classic apple pie and rich cheesecake that will leave your guests wanting more.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12.0
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Apple Filling
- 3 cups diced apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Salted Caramel
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
In a bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the apples evenly, then set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust, followed by a layer of the spiced apple mixture. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
In a saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted and golden. Carefully add butter and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Stir in sea salt.
Once the cheesecake is cool, drizzle with salted caramel before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 6g