Introduction
Indulge in the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, tangy apples, and gooey caramel with our irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake. This decadent dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel apple topping. Whether enjoyed during the fall season or any time of year, this cheesecake is sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the Caramel Apple Topping:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, store-bought or homemade
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, forming an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press the crust firmly into place.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Tap the pan gently on the countertop to release any air bubbles.
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for an additional 30 minutes to cool gradually.
5. Make the Caramel Apple Topping:
- While the cheesecake is cooling, prepare the caramel apple topping.
- In a skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Cook the apple mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the caramel apple topping cool slightly.
6. Top the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, carefully remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Spoon the caramel apple topping over the cooled cheesecake, spreading it out evenly.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake for an extra touch of sweetness.
7. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the Caramel Apple Cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or until chilled and set.
- Before serving, slice the cheesecake into portions and garnish with additional caramel sauce if desired.
Conclusion
With our Caramel Apple Cheesecake recipe, you can enjoy the classic flavors of caramel and apple in a decadent and creamy dessert. Whether served as a special treat for a holiday gathering or enjoyed as a sweet indulgence any day of the week, this cheesecake is sure to impress with its rich and luscious taste. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of heaven with our delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake!