Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

You know that moment when the cool autumn breeze drifts in through the window, bringing with it the comforting scent of baked apples and warm spices? That’s when you know it’s time to whip up a Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. This delightful dessert offers a luscious blend of creamy cheesecake, tender apple slices, and a rich salted caramel drizzle that dances on your taste buds like an old friend’s warm embrace. Each slice feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening, and it’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even a simple weeknight treat.

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Let’s Make It Together

Creating this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is all about the joy of cooking, gathering your loved ones around the kitchen, and savoring every step. With deep, caramel notes intertwining with the tartness of apples and the rich creaminess of cheesecake, every bite is a warm memory waiting to be made.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 cups peeled and sliced apples
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter (for caramel)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for caramel)
• 1 tsp sea salt (for caramel)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C), letting the warmth fill your kitchen.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this sweet mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a sturdy crust. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden, and then let it cool completely.
3. Meanwhile, peel and slice your apples, introducing them to a bowl containing the brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Toss until evenly coated and then layer them over the cooled crust, filling every nook and cranny with those lovely apple slices.
4. In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, creating a velvety cheesecake mixture.
5. Pour this delicious cheesecake mixture over your apple layer, smoothing the top gently with a spatula.
6. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until the center is slightly wobbly but set. The aroma will be unbeatable! Once baked, cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. For the salted caramel, in a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1 cup of sugar until it turns a lovely amber color. Stir in 6 tbsp of butter until melted, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Add the sea salt, and stir until smooth and luscious.
8. Once the cheesecake has chilled to perfection, drizzle the cooled salted caramel over the top before serving—oh, the glorious shimmer it adds!

Nutritional Snapshot

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 8g
• Carbs: 55g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

This scrumptious cheesecake is not only a treat for your taste buds but also packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling satisfied without feeling heavy.

Moments Made for This Dish

Picture this: a lively family dinner where laughter fills the air, and the children share tales from their day around the table. Each slice of the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake brightens the evening, pairing beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the kind of dessert that makes any moment special, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering, afternoon tea with friends, or a cozy movie night in.

Keep It Fresh

To keep your cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay delightful for up to five days. Want to save it for later? Consider wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and then placing them in an airtight container to freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or for a couple of hours at room temperature.

Betty’s Secrets

• For an even creamier cheesecake texture, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
• Don’t skip cooling the crust completely before adding the apple layer; this prevents sogginess.
• To enhance the seasonal flavor, try using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples—they add a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly!
• Remember to let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling. This allows it to set just enough so that it won’t run right off your cheesecake.
• If you like a thicker caramel, let it cook a minute or two longer until it thickens to your liking.

Creative Twists

• For a fall twist, add chopped pecans to your apple mixture for an extra crunch.
• Swap in some maple syrup in place of sugar for the caramel sauce to introduce a subtle, lovely flavor.
• Try blending in some pumpkin puree into the cheesecake batter for a delightful pumpkin-cheesecake fusion.

Your Questions Answered

What is salted caramel apple pie cheesecake? It’s a delightful dessert combining a rich cheesecake with layers of spiced apples and a drizzle of salted caramel, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings!

How can I make salted caramel for my cheesecake? It’s simple! Melt granulated sugar until golden, stir in butter and heavy cream, and finish with a sprinkle of sea salt for that signature flavor.

Can I use different fruits in my cheesecake? Absolutely! You can switch the apples for berries or peaches, providing a fresh twist to the original recipe.

How long does this cheesecake last? If stored properly, it stays fresh in the fridge for up to five days, making it perfect for enjoying all week long!