Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen one crisp autumn afternoon, the air filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and caramel, I couldn’t help but feel that magic of the season. This is the moment I knew I had to share my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe with you! It’s the ideal combination of velvety cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, drizzled with glossy salted caramel. Not only is it an absolute showstopper for holiday gatherings, but it’s also a delightful treat to make any weekend feel special. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your dessert game while being surprisingly easy to whip up. Are you ready to impress your friends and family with this luscious creation? Keep scrolling to sweeten your culinary adventure! Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor Fusion: Each bite of this cheesecake bursts with tender cinnamon-spiced apples that complement the creamy filling perfectly. Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a holiday or just a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to wow your guests and make any gathering memorable. Effortlessly Elegant: With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that feels impressive and luxurious, perfect for showcasing your baking skills. Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize this dish! Try substituting apples with pears or adding a splash of bourbon for a unique twist. Quick Prep Time: Despite its stunning appearance, the preparation can be accomplished in under an hour, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the festivities. Looking for more delicious ideas? Don’t miss our Churro Cheesecake Bliss for another sweet treat! Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! For the Crust Graham Cracker Crumbs – Provides a crunchy foundation; swap with digestive biscuits for a different flavor. Granulated Sugar (Crust) – Adds sweetness; omit for a less sugary base. Unsalted Butter (Crust) – Binds the crust together; coconut oil can substitute for a dairy-free option. For the Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese – Gives smoothness and richness; Neufchâtel cheese can lighten the recipe. Granulated Sugar (Filling) – Enhances sweetness; brown sugar can deepen the flavor profile. Large Eggs – Stabilizes the filling; flax eggs are a vegan substitute if needed. Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; almond extract offers a delightful twist. Sour Cream – Contributes richness and tang; Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative. For the Apple Topping Medium Apples (Peeled and Diced) – Introduces fruitiness and texture; opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith. Unsalted Butter (for Apples) – Adds richness to the apples; try vegan butter for a plant-based option. Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; coconut sugar is a great alternative. Ground Cinnamon – Spices up the apple mixture; substitute with freshly grated nutmeg for a unique flavor. Ground Nutmeg – Enhances overall complexity; can be omitted based on preference. For the Salted Caramel Granulated Sugar (for Caramel) – Sweetener for the sauce; brown sugar creates a richer caramel. Unsalted Butter (for Caramel) – Offers a luxurious texture; vegan butter can work just as well. Heavy Cream – Creates a smooth and silky caramel; coconut cream serves as a dairy-free alternative. Sea Salt – Balances the caramel’s sweetness; kosher salt is an acceptable substitute. With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to whip up an unforgettable Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe Step 1: Prepare the Crust Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and in a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter. Using your fingers or the back of a measuring cup, press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then allow it to cool completely. Step 2: Make the Filling In a large mixing bowl, beat well-softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in granulated sugar until fully combined. Add eggs one at a time, incorporating them fully before adding vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until everything is just combined to avoid overmixing, then pour this luscious filling over your cooled graham cracker crust. Step 3: Bake Prepare a water bath by placing the springform pan inside a larger baking pan filled with hot water. Bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set. Turn off the oven, crack the door ajar, and let it cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Step 4: Chill Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you prefer, to allow it to set completely and enhance its flavors. Step 5: Prepare Apples In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter, then add the diced apples along with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 8 minutes until the apples are tender and have released their juices, creating a syrupy mixture. Remove from heat and set aside. Step 6: Make Caramel Sauce In a medium saucepan, heat granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring gently until it melts and turns a deep amber color. Quickly add in unsalted butter and whisk until fully incorporated. Carefully whisk in heavy cream—expect bubbling! Allow boiling for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in sea salt for a perfect balance. Step 7: Assemble Once the cheesecake has chilled thoroughly, gently remove it from the springform pan. Top with the warm apple mixture, spreading it evenly over the surface. Finally, drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the apples, allowing it to flow down the sides before serving your delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Variations Feel free to get creative and tailor this delicious cheesecake to your taste and dietary needs—it’s just waiting for your special touch! Fruit Swap: Substitute apples with pears for a delightful twist. Pears will add a subtle sweetness and unique flavor to the cheesecake. Bourbon Boost: Add a splash of bourbon to the caramel for a rich and sophisticated depth. It creates a warming finish that elevates the entire dessert. Pumpkin Pleasure: Use pumpkin puree instead of apples for a festive fall version. This variation offers a creamy, spiced filling perfect for holiday gatherings. Nutty Crust: Incorporate finely chopped nuts into the graham cracker crust for added crunch and flavor. It’s a surprise that adds texture to each bite. Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut cream for the caramel. You won’t miss the dairy in this luscious treat! Cinnamon Spice: Feel free to enhance the spice profile by adding a teaspoon of ground ginger or cardamom to the apples. It’ll give your cheesecake an exciting flavor kick. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel topping for a decadent chocolatey twist. The combination of caramel and chocolate is simply irresistible. Creamy Ganache: For a rich finish, top with a layer of chocolate ganache instead of caramel. This twist will create a dreamy, indulgent cheesecake experience. And if you’re in the mood to experiment, consider pairing this dessert with other sweet treats. Why not discover new flavors with our Cherry Cheesecake Puppy or enjoy a slice of Churro Cheesecake Bliss to add a creative flair to your dessert table? What to Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake The rich, decadent notes of this heavenly dessert deserve companion dishes that enhance its flavors while creating a comforting, satisfying meal. Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping adds a deliciously sweet, spiced note that beautifully complements the cheesecake’s richness. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream introduces contrasting temperatures and balances the sweet-salty flavors wonderfully. Warm Spiced Cider: The warm, fragrant notes of spiced apple cider play up the apples in the cheesecake, making it a cozy drink perfect for chilly evenings. Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or espresso intensifies the flavors of the cheesecake while providing a nice, warm contrast. Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of dark chocolate adds another layer of flavor and elegance to your dessert plate, enhancing its visual appeal. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the cheesecake’s richness, offering a refreshing burst of flavor that is particularly festive during the holidays. Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that echoes the graham cracker crust. Caramel Latte: For a coffee twist, serve a caramel latte alongside your cheesecake to tie together the salted caramel notes in a deliciously warm drink. Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature. This guarantees a creamy, smooth filling without lumps. Don’t Overmix: When making the filling, mix until just combined to avoid introducing too much air, which can lead to cracks in your cheesecake. Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, ensures it sets perfectly and slices beautifully. Water Bath Importance: Baking in a water bath keeps the cheesecake moist and helps regulate temperature, preventing cracks. Don’t skip this step! Warm Apples and Caramel: Serve the cheesecake with warm apple topping and freshly drizzled caramel sauce for a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures. How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheating: If desired, reheat slices in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a warm treat or enjoy chilled. Serving Tips: When serving after freezing, consider adding a drizzle of fresh salted caramel to enhance the taste of your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Make Ahead Options These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake delights are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during busy holiday gatherings! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep them in the refrigerator after assembly. The apple topping can be made ahead too—just cook the apples and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, avoid drizzling the salted caramel until right before serving, as this keeps the cheesecake looking its best. When it’s time to enjoy, simply rewarm the apples and caramel slightly, assemble, and watch as your guests marvel at this stunning dessert! Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I select the best apples for my cheesecake? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose a tart variety like Granny Smith apples. Look for firm apples with no dark spots or bruises, as these indicate ripeness and high quality, ensuring your cheesecake will have that perfect fruitiness. How should I store leftovers of the cheesecake? I recommend placing any leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake in an airtight container and refrigerating it. You can enjoy it within 2-3 days for the freshest taste. Ensure the cheesecake is completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation. Can I freeze the cheesecake, and if so, how? Of course! To freeze your cheesecake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw the slices in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before serving. What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking? Very! If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry! Cracking often occurs from overmixing or too much heat. To prevent this, mix the filling until just combined and always use a water bath for baking, as it helps maintain a gentle, even temperature. If cracks do appear, simply top with the apple mixture and caramel sauce to mask them beautifully! Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers and ensure all ingredients, including the baking powder, are labeled gluten-free. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, coconut oil works well in the crust, and you can substitute the cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives. Enjoy your delicious creation without worry! Can pets eat any of the ingredients in this cheesecake? No, it’s best to keep this cheesecake away from pets, as many ingredients like sugar and heavy cream can upset their stomachs. While apples are safe for dogs, the added sugars and butter in this recipe are not suitable, so it’s safer to share plain apple slices with your furry friends instead! Decadent Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe to Savor Indulge in this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe, combining creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and crunchy crust drizzled with salted caramel. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs Provides a crunchy foundation; swap with digestive biscuits for a different flavor.1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness; omit for a less sugary base.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Binds the crust together; coconut oil can substitute for a dairy-free option.For the Cheesecake Filling16 oz Cream Cheese Gives smoothness and richness; Neufchâtel cheese can lighten the recipe.1 cup Granulated Sugar Enhances sweetness; brown sugar can deepen the flavor profile.3 Large Eggs Stabilizes the filling; flax eggs are a vegan substitute if needed.1 tbsp Vanilla Extract Elevates flavor; almond extract offers a delightful twist.1 cup Sour Cream Contributes richness and tang; Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative.For the Apple Topping2 Medium Apples Peeled and diced; opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith.2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the apples; try vegan butter for a plant-based option.1/4 cup Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and depth; coconut sugar is a great alternative.1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Spices up the apple mixture; substitute with freshly grated nutmeg for a unique flavor.1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg Enhances overall complexity; can be omitted based on preference.For the Salted Caramel1 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetener for the sauce; brown sugar creates a richer caramel.1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Offers a luxurious texture; vegan butter can work just as well.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Creates a smooth and silky caramel; coconut cream serves as a dairy-free alternative.1/2 tsp Sea Salt Balances the caramel’s sweetness; kosher salt is an acceptable substitute. Equipment 9-inch springform panMixing bowlskilletmedium saucepanBaking pan for water bath Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and in a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then allow it to cool completely.In a large mixing bowl, beat well-softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in granulated sugar until fully combined. Add eggs one at a time, incorporating them fully before adding vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until everything is just combined, then pour this filling over your cooled graham cracker crust.Prepare a water bath by placing the springform pan inside a larger baking pan filled with hot water. Bake the cheesecake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set. Turn off the oven, crack the door ajar, and let it cool in the oven for 1 hour.Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight to set completely.In a skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter, then add diced apples along with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 8 minutes until the apples are tender. Remove from heat and set aside.In a medium saucepan, heat granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring gently until it melts and turns a deep amber color. Quickly add in unsalted butter and whisk until fully incorporated. Carefully whisk in heavy cream, allow boiling for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in sea salt.Once the cheesecake has chilled thoroughly, gently remove it from the springform pan. Top with the warm apple mixture, spreading it evenly over the surface. Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the apples. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all dairy ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature for a creamy filling. Chill thoroughly to set perfectly and slice beautifully. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
