Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that marries the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of apple pie. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cheesecake layer, spiced apples, and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce that ties everything together. This dessert is indulgent yet balanced, with the sweetness of apples and caramel enhanced by a subtle touch of salt. Perfect for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or whenever you crave something truly special, this cheesecake offers layers of flavor and texture that delight with every bite. It is a show-stopping centerpiece that not only looks impressive but also delivers a comforting warmth, making it a dessert to be remembered long after it is served.
Print
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake – The Ultimate Fall Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins + chilling
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent dessert combining creamy cheesecake, spiced apple pie filling, and a rich salted caramel drizzle over a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (plus extra for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla and sour cream.
- Pour cheesecake batter over the prepared crust.
- In a skillet, melt butter and add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook until apples are tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Spoon apple mixture evenly over cheesecake batter.
- Swirl in 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce on top.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until center is set but still slightly jiggly. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, drizzle with extra salted caramel and garnish with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart balance against the caramel.
- Best when chilled overnight before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 5 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating a dessert that is creamy, spiced, and indulgent.
Graham cracker crumbs form the crust’s foundation, offering a sweet, buttery, and slightly crunchy base that holds the cheesecake layers together.
Butter binds the crumbs into a firm crust while adding richness and depth of flavor.
Cream cheese creates the luscious, velvety texture of the cheesecake. Its tangy creaminess balances the sweetness of apples and caramel.
Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake filling while maintaining a smooth texture.
Brown sugar brings a caramel-like depth to the apple pie filling, enhancing the warm autumn spices.
Eggs provide structure to the cheesecake, helping it set properly while maintaining a creamy consistency.
Vanilla extract elevates the overall flavor, complementing both the cheesecake and the apple filling with a delicate sweetness.
Apples are the star of the pie layer, offering tartness and natural sweetness. When spiced and softened, they add a comforting apple-pie flavor.
Cinnamon infuses the apples with a warm, spiced aroma that defines classic fall desserts.
Nutmeg adds a subtle earthiness that deepens the flavor of the apple mixture.
Salted caramel sauce is the luxurious finishing touch, drizzled over the top for a sweet-salty contrast that enhances every layer.
Directions
Start by preparing the crust. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill while making the filling.
For the cheesecake layer, beat cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
Prepare the apple filling by sautéing sliced apples in butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until tender and caramelized. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then spoon it evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) using a water bath to prevent cracks. Bake until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce. Optionally, garnish with extra apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful finish.
Servings and timing
This cheesecake serves 10–12 people. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, with a baking time of 60 minutes. Add a minimum of 4 hours for chilling, making this a dessert best prepared in advance.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To serve from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the cheesecake’s texture.
Variations and Customizations
Apple Variety Twist
Use Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor profile.
Nutty Addition
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple layer for crunch and depth.
Crust Upgrade
Swap graham crackers for gingersnaps or shortbread for extra spiced or buttery notes.
Mini Cheesecakes
Prepare in muffin tins for individual servings perfect for parties.
Spiced Caramel
Infuse the caramel sauce with a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt for added warmth.
Chocolate Drizzle
Layer a thin drizzle of melted chocolate over the caramel for extra indulgence.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free graham crackers to create a crust that fits dietary needs.
Extra Creamy
Blend sour cream into the cheesecake layer for added tang and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it is best made a day in advance to allow proper chilling.
What apples work best for this recipe?
Tart varieties like Granny Smith balance the sweetness beautifully.
Do I need a water bath for baking?
Yes, it helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, though homemade salted caramel gives a richer flavor.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Bake the crust briefly before adding the filling.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What size pan should I use?
A 9-inch springform pan works best for this recipe.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, but it may alter the balance of flavors slightly.
Can I make this without eggs?
Use a cheesecake egg substitute like cornstarch and sour cream for a no-egg version.
How do I cut clean slices?
Dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe clean, and slice for neat portions.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a dessert that embodies comfort and elegance. With its layers of buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and decadent caramel, it captures the essence of fall in every bite. Ideal for holidays, celebrations, or cozy nights in, this cheesecake is both versatile and memorable. Once you serve it, expect it to become a family favorite that is requested year after year.