Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was drifting through the bustling farmers’ market last Saturday, the scent of fresh apples filled the air, instantly whisking me back to cozy autumn evenings. That’s when the idea for my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake was born—a creamy fusion where the classic American dessert meets velvety cheesecake bliss. This delightful crowd-pleaser not only showcases the warm spices of fall, but it also boasts a quick prep time that makes it perfect for any gathering. Imagine indulging in a slice with a crunchy graham cracker crust, tender apples warmed with cinnamon, and a drizzle of rich salted caramel—it’s the ultimate comfort dessert! Ready to transform your fall baking? Let’s dive into this creamy creation that’s sure to impress your friends and family! Why is this cheesecake a must-try? Decadent Flavor: This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake marries the sweet and tangy notes of fresh apples with a creamy cheesecake base and luscious salted caramel, creating a taste that’s simply irresistible. Seasonal Delight: Perfectly embodying the flavors of fall, it makes any gathering feel cozy and festive, making it an essential dessert for autumn celebrations. Quick Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert without spending all day in the kitchen. Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer sweeter Honeycrisps or spicier Granny Smith apples, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste. Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or holiday parties, this cheesecake is sure to impress and leave everyone clamoring for seconds, just like my beloved Berry Peach Cheesecake. Showstopper Presentation: With its beautiful layers and salted caramel drizzle, it’s not only delicious but visually stunning, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dessert table. Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Ingredients For the Crust Graham Cracker Crumbs – Base for the crust; substitute with crushed cookies for a different flavor. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust for a delightful flavor. Unsalted Butter – Binds crust ingredients; be sure to use it melted for better consistency. For the Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese – Main component for creaminess; ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling, balancing the cream cheese. Eggs – Provides structure and richness; use at room temperature for better incorporation. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully. Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and a hint of tanginess to the filling. For the Apple Layer Peeled and Sliced Apples – Adds fruitiness and warmth; substitute Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter filling. Brown Sugar – Sweetens the apples while enhancing caramel notes. Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, essential for that fall flavor. All-Purpose Flour – Helps to thicken the apple filling and keep it from becoming too runny. For the Salted Caramel Sauce Granulated Sugar for Caramel – Base for your homemade salted caramel sauce. Unsalted Butter for Caramel – Enriches the caramel sauce, making it silky smooth. Heavy Cream – Gives body and richness to the caramel sauce. Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness of the caramel, enhancing its flavor. This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is your ticket to a cozy fall gathering, combining the best elements of cheesecake and classic apple pie. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step ensures that your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake bakes evenly, creating a creamy texture. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your 9-inch springform pan for easy removal later. Step 2: Make the Crust In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, then press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then take it out and let it cool completely as you move on to the apple layer. Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer Toss the peeled and sliced apples in a separate bowl with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and all-purpose flour, ensuring each slice is well coated. Spread this apple mixture evenly over the cooled crust, letting the warm spices fill your kitchen with the scent of fall. This layer will add sweetness and texture to your cheesecake. Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, mixing well after each incorporation, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream. The filling should be creamy and well combined, ready to pour over your apple layer for that rich Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake experience. Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the apple layer in the springform pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. This ensures a creamy texture while baking. Once done, let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Step 6: Chill the Cheesecake Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps achieve that perfect creamy texture. While you wait, your anticipation will build for this incredible Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Step 7: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce To prepare the salted caramel sauce, heat granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it melts and turns a beautiful amber color. Carefully stir in unsalted butter until melted, then slowly whisk in heavy cream. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt to enhance the flavor. Set it aside to cool slightly as you prepare to drizzle it over the cheesecake. Step 8: Drizzle and Serve Once your cheesecake is fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle the warm salted caramel sauce liberally over the top, allowing it to soak into the cheesecake slightly. Slice into generous portions of your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake and get ready to enjoy this fall favorite with family and friends! What to Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake? Indulge in a heavenly dining experience that beautifully complements this rich dessert. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a refreshing creaminess that balances the cheesecake’s richness, enhancing each bite. Whipped Cream: Soft and fluffy, it lightens up the flavors and provides a delicious contrast to the dense cheesecake. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai echo the cinnamon in the dessert, creating a cozy harmony of flavors. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle extra salted caramel over your cheesecake slice for a sweet, gooey finish that’s irresistible. Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and zesty, a medley of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the rich dessert, cleansing the palate. Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty and sweet profile of these bars pairs exquisitely with the cheesecake, making for a delightful dessert duo. Coffee: A rich cup of coffee rounds off the meal perfectly, with its depth balancing the sweetness of the cheesecake. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For a festive touch, these spiced muffins echo fall flavors beautifully while providing additional texture and warmth. How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Room Temperature: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, it should not exceed 2 hours at room temperature. Fridge: Store leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices tightly wrapped in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat the cheesecake; serve it chilled. If desired, add a fresh drizzle of salted caramel after thawing to restore its delightful decadence. Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Fresh Ingredients: Use in-season apples for the best flavor and texture; they make your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake shine. Room Temperature: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother cheesecake batter that incorporates easily. Chill Time Matters: Don’t rush the chilling process; refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours to achieve the perfect creamy texture. Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the baking time; a slightly underbaked center results in a creamier consistency, avoiding a dry cheesecake. Caramel Consistency: Allow your salted caramel sauce to cool before drizzling; it should be pourable but not too hot to avoid melting the cheesecake. Make Ahead Options These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecakes are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the crust and apple layer up to 24 hours in advance by storing them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The cheesecake filling can also be made and combined directly over the apples just before baking if desired; this will keep it just as delicious without compromising flavor. Once baked, chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld perfectly. For serving, simply drizzle the homemade salted caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake just before your guests arrive for a freshly made, stunning dessert that’s sure to impress! Variations & Substitutions for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Feel free to get creative and tailor this cheesecake to your taste buds for a truly delightful experience! Apple Variety: Swap out Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisps for a sweeter profile. Honeycrisps bring a natural sweetness that beautifully complements the cheesecake’s creamy filling. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for an extra depth of flavor. Warm spices can really elevate the autumn vibes in every bite. Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to create a vegan-friendly cheesecake. This keeps it creamy while accommodating dietary preferences. Caramel Kick: Enhance the caramel flavor with a splash of bourbon or rum in your sauce. Just imagine the rich, warm flavors mingling delightfully together! Nutty Crunch: Top your cheesecake with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and crunch. The nutty contrast pairs well with the silky cheesecake and caramel drizzle. Chocolate Delight: Drizzle with chocolate sauce along with the salted caramel for a chocolatey twist. The combination of flavors will leave everyone asking for more! Graham Cracker Alternative: Swap graham cracker crumbs for crushed vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies for a twist on the crust. This little change can add a delightful surprise! Baked Cheescake Twist: Instead of baking, freeze your cheesecake and serve it semi-frozen for a refreshing dessert option. It’s a fun twist perfect for warmer days! This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a delicious foundation for culinary creativity, just like my cozy Berry Peach Cheesecake and others from the site! Explore and enjoy these variations to make it your own. Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What kind of apples should I use for the apple layer? Absolutely! I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake. If you prefer a sweeter filling, Honeycrisp apples are a delightful alternative. Whichever variety you choose, make sure they are fresh and firm to ensure the best texture. How should I store leftovers of the cheesecake? To keep your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake fresh, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Remember to allow it to cool completely before wrapping to maintain its texture. Can I freeze the cheesecake, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake! For optimal storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. It’s like having a slice of fall ready at your fingertips! What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking? Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! To help prevent cracking, make sure to beat your cheesecake batter just until smooth and avoid over-mixing. If it does crack during baking, you can mask it by drizzling salted caramel over the top once it’s cooled. This not only adds flavor but also covers any imperfections beautifully. Is this cheesecake safe for people with nut allergies? Very! This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is nut-free as written. However, make sure to double-check the labels of your ingredients, especially the crust, as some alternative crusts may contain nuts. Always practice caution if serving people with known allergies. Enjoy worry-free bliss! Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake, a perfect fusion of classic desserts for your fall gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes minsChill Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs Base for the crust; substitute with crushed cookies for a different flavor.1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the crust for a delightful flavor.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Binds crust ingredients; be sure to use it melted for better consistency.For the Cheesecake Filling16 oz Cream Cheese Main component for creaminess; ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing.3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cheesecake filling, balancing the cream cheese.3 Eggs Provides structure and richness; use at room temperature for better incorporation.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.1/2 cup Sour Cream Adds creaminess and a hint of tanginess to the filling.For the Apple Layer4 cups Peeled and Sliced Apples Adds fruitiness and warmth; substitute Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter filling.1/4 cup Brown Sugar Sweetens the apples while enhancing caramel notes.1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Adds warmth and spice, essential for that fall flavor.2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Helps to thicken the apple filling and keep it from becoming too runny.For the Salted Caramel Sauce1 cup Granulated Sugar for Caramel Base for your homemade salted caramel sauce.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter for Caramel Enriches the caramel sauce, making it silky smooth.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Gives body and richness to the caramel sauce.1 tsp Sea Salt Balances the sweetness of the caramel, enhancing its flavor. Equipment 9-inch springform panMixing bowlMedium saucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare your 9-inch springform pan.In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Press into the bottom of the springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.Toss the peeled and sliced apples with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and all-purpose flour. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cooled crust.Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream gradually, mixing until creamy.Pour the cheesecake mixture over the apple layer in the springform pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes until the edges are set but the center is jiggly. Cool completely before refrigerating.Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture.For the salted caramel sauce, heat granulated sugar in a saucepan until melted and amber. Stir in unsalted butter, then whisk in heavy cream and sea salt. Let cool slightly.Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, drizzle with salted caramel sauce, slice, and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 7gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 4mg NotesUse fresh, in-season apples for the best flavor. Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest batter. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
