Caramel Apple Cheesecake – Irresistible Dessert Recipe

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is the ultimate fall-inspired dessert, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress. A buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, spiced apple topping, and luscious caramel sauce make it unforgettable.

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Recipe Overview

• Course: Dessert

• Cuisine: American (Fall-Inspired)

• Servings: 10–12

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Chill Time: 4 hours (overnight is best)

• Total Time: ~5½ hours

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Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 crackers)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup sour cream

For the Apple Topping:

• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

• ½ cup heavy cream

• Pinch of salt

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Directions

Step 1 – Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.

3. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

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Step 2 – Prepare Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

2. Add sugar and mix until well combined.

3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.

4. Blend in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.

5. Pour mixture over cooled crust.

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Step 3 – Bake Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan.

2. Fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides (water bath method).

3. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.

4. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake rest for 1 hour.

5. Remove and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).

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Step 4 – Cook Apple Topping

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until apples are tender and caramelized.

4. Remove from heat and cool completely.

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Step 5 – Make Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat until melted and amber in color.

2. Add butter and whisk until combined.

3. Slowly pour in heavy cream (careful, it will bubble).

4. Stir in a pinch of salt. Let cool slightly.

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Step 6 – Assemble Cheesecake

1. Remove chilled cheesecake from springform pan.

2. Spoon apple topping over cheesecake.

3. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.

4. Chill until ready to serve.

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Serving Suggestions

• Top with whipped cream and extra caramel drizzle.

• Serve with hot coffee, cider, or tea.

• Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or sea salt for texture.

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Storage

• Store cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freeze (without apple topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before adding topping.

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Variations

• Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Add flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty twist.

• Mini Cheesecakes: Use muffin tins for individual portions.

• No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling and set in the fridge (skip the water bath).

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✨ This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is creamy, dreamy, and bursting with cozy fall flavors—guaranteed to impress at any gathering!