Description
A luscious Caramel Apple Cheesecake that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy spiced cream cheese filling loaded with tender apple pieces. Finished with a smooth caramel drizzle and optional whipped cream, this dessert is perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- Whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust layer.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1 cup sugar and continue mixing until well incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly mixed.
- Add apples and sour cream: Fold the finely chopped apples and sour cream gently into the cream cheese mixture until combined but maintaining the texture of the apples throughout.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle the top generously with caramel sauce. Optionally, add dollops of whipped cream for extra richness and presentation.
Notes
- Use firm apple varieties such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to maintain texture after baking.
- For added depth of flavor, sauté the apples lightly with a teaspoon of cinnamon and sugar before folding into the filling.
- Store any leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh.
