If you are on the hunt for a dessert that brings together the best of two worlds, the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This luscious creation combines the warm, comforting flavors of spiced apple pie with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all kissed by a rich salted caramel drizzle. Every bite offers a beautiful balance of sweet, tart, and salty notes, wrapped in an irresistible graham cracker crust. It’s a dessert that feels both familiar and luxurious, perfect for cozy gatherings or treating yourself after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look straightforward, but together they build the incredible layers of flavor and texture that make this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe so special. Each one plays a role, from the crisp tartness of the apples to the buttery richness of the crust and the smooth creaminess of the cheesecake filling.
- 4 medium apples: Choose firm, slightly tart apples for the perfect baking texture and bright flavor.
- 32 ounces cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake, delivering that signature creamy texture and tang.
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the apples and sweetens the cheesecake filling.
- 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs: Adds a warm, spiced crunch that forms a sturdy, flavorful crust.
- 6 tablespoons salted butter (for caramel sauce): Essential for making rich and smooth salty caramel that enhances every bite.
- 1 cup heavy cream (for caramel sauce): Creates a silky, luscious texture in the salted caramel that perfectly complements the apples and cream cheese.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Apples
Start by heating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when you need it. While the oven warms, slice your apples thinly and cook them slowly with butter, sugar, and warming spices until they’re tender and glossy. This filling is what captures the comforting essence of apple pie and fills your cheesecake with bursts of sweet tartness.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
Mix your cinnamon graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture holds together like damp sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a perfect base that will hold all the luscious layers above. Bake it for about 10 minutes to set the crust and deepen the buttery flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter
Beat the cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth and creamy. Then, add eggs one at a time, blending well after each to maintain that silky texture. Finally, incorporate sour cream and vanilla extract to infuse richness and lift the flavors, giving your batter a smooth consistency that will bake into pure perfection.
Step 4: Layer and Bake the Cheesecake
Start with half of your cheesecake batter and spread it gently over the cooled crust; this creates the base layer that holds everything together. Then spoon the warm apple filling evenly on top before layering the remaining batter over the apples. Place the pan in a water bath—a simple hack to prevent cracking—and bake for about 90 minutes. This slow, gentle baking is what gives you that creamy, dense texture you crave.
Step 5: Cool and Add the Finishing Touches
Once baked, let your cheesecake cool completely to room temperature and then refrigerate overnight. This chilling step helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures the perfect slice. Before serving, prepare a homemade salted caramel sauce by gently melting butter and cream with sugar, then drizzle it generously across the top for a glossy, irresistible finish that makes this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate each slice by adding a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the caramel drizzle. You might also toss on some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy cheesecake and tender apples.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream lightly sweetened with vanilla. If you want to balance the richness, a simple mixed berry compote on the side provides a pop of acidity and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, consider serving mini versions of this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe in small jars or ramekins, layering crust, filling, apples, and caramel sauce for a fun, handheld treat. Or, after slicing your cheesecake, drizzle each piece with caramel and arrange thin apple slices in a fan shape on top to create a stunning visual effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and glazed with salted caramel sauce, cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze slices wrapped securely in plastic wrap and then foil. Frozen cheesecake slices stay delicious for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer to slightly warm it, let it sit out for 30 minutes to soften gently; avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture and cause the caramel to become too runny.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work best for a balanced flavor, you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn to add your own twist. Just make sure they hold up well when cooked.
Do I need a water bath to bake the cheesecake?
Yes, the water bath is important. It prevents the cheesecake from cracking by providing gentle, even heat and keeps it moist, resulting in a silky smooth texture.
Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the salted caramel sauce a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Warm it gently before drizzling over your cheesecake to regain that perfect pourable consistency.
Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?
Chilling overnight is ideal because it allows the flavors to develop fully and helps the cheesecake firm up, making it easier to slice and enhancing the texture.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs if I can’t find them?
Digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies crushed finely make excellent substitutes. Just mix with melted butter as you would graham crackers to form your crust.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels both nostalgic and decadent all at once. It’s a showstopper at any gathering, and honestly, an amazing treat to enjoy any time you want to indulge. Once you try it, I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes. So grab those apples and cream cheese, and get ready for a slice of pure bliss!
Print
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including cooling and baking)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with layers of tender spiced apples, a cinnamon graham cracker crust, and a homemade salted caramel drizzle. Perfect for fall or anytime you crave a decadent dessert with complex flavors and a buttery caramel finish.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Crust
- 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Cheesecake Batter
- 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare apple filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced apples, 1/4 cup sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still holding shape, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine the cinnamon graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool while preparing the batter.
- Prepare the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1.5 cups sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Assemble the cheesecake layers: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Spoon the cooked apple filling on top of the batter layer. Carefully spread the remaining cheesecake batter over the apples, making sure the filling is covered.
- Bake in a water bath: Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan. Pour hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath. Bake for approximately 90 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
- Prepare crumble topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and cubed cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend until crumbly. Sprinkle this on top of the chilled cheesecake just before serving.
- Make salted caramel sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup sugar without stirring until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully add 6 tablespoons butter and whisk until melted. Slowly pour in 1 cup heavy cream while whisking continuously. Cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Let cool slightly.
- Serve: Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the cheesecake with crumble topping. Slice and enjoy this rich, indulgent dessert!
Notes
- Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the batter.
- The water bath helps prevent cracking by gently cooking the cheesecake.
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
- Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can prepare the caramel sauce in advance and reheat gently before serving.
