If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a cozy hug wrapped up in elegance, look no further than this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. This dessert is an absolute showstopper, flawlessly blending the warm spices and tender apples of a classic apple pie with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all finished with a luscious, buttery salted caramel sauce. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress family or friends at any gathering or become your new favorite indulgence on a quiet night in.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake plays a vital role, from the crunchy graham cracker crust that forms the perfect base to the rich cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth. The apples bring freshness and spice, while the salted caramel sauce adds that irresistible sweet and salty finish. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: This creates a buttery, crunchy foundation that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps bind the crust.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Provides richness and holds the crust together.
24 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake, offering a smooth and tangy base for the filling.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the other flavors.
3 large eggs: Add structure and creamy texture to the filling.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance sweetness.
3 cups peeled and sliced apples: These tender apples bring freshness and natural sweetness.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Gives the apples a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the apples with cozy, classic spice notes.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the apple filling and prevent excess moisture.
1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel): Essential for making that golden, decadent caramel sauce.
6 tbsp unsalted butter (for caramel): Adds luxurious creaminess to the caramel.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce silky and smooth.
1 tsp sea salt: Provides the perfect balance to the sweetness in the caramel sauce.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press this into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust. Once done, let it cool completely before moving on to the next step to ensure it holds together perfectly under the creamy filling.

Step 2: Create the Apple Layer

While your crust chills, toss together the peeled, sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. This blend will soften slightly and sweeten during baking, releasing mouthwatering aromas reminiscent of a warm apple pie. Spread this spiced apple mixture evenly over the cooled crust, setting the stage for the luscious cheesecake layer.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until completely smooth and creamy. The key here is to avoid lumps so your cheesecake sets with a wonderfully silky texture. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream last for that perfect balance of richness and tang.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cream cheese filling over the apple layer in your springform pan, spreading gently to cover the apples evenly. Bake the entire cheesecake for about 60 to 70 minutes. The center should be almost set but still have a slight wobble—this will give you that smooth, creamy finish once cooled. After baking, allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.

Step 5: Make and Drizzle the Salted Caramel Sauce

This is where the magic happens. Heat granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to melt and swirl into a gorgeous amber caramel. Carefully add butter, stirring until melted and combined. Slowly incorporate heavy cream while stirring constantly to create a velvety sauce. Remove from heat and mix in sea salt for that perfect salted caramel flavor. Drizzle generously over your chilled cheesecake just before serving.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Garnishes

A little goes a long way when it comes to garnishing this indulgent dessert. Consider sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch, or add a dollop of freshly whipped cream to bring out the creamy textures even more. For a festive touch, a light dusting of cinnamon or even edible gold flakes will elevate presentation.

Side Dishes

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is rich, so serving it alongside a simple, lightly brewed cup of coffee or chai tea is a fantastic choice. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream also complements the dessert wonderfully, adding a cool creaminess to each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Slice the cheesecake into neat wedges, drizzle more salted caramel on each plate, and top with thin apple slices that have been lightly caramelized. For an intimate dinner, serve in individual jars layered with caramel sauce and apple slices for a modern, rustic twist on the classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake airtight in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its freshness. Cover the top lightly with plastic wrap or foil to protect the caramel sauce from drying out or absorbing other odors.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and drizzle fresh caramel sauce to revive the luscious topping.

Reheating

It’s best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let a piece sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the cheesecake and caramel.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this cheesecake?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and balance sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for different flavor nuances and textures.

Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan makes it much easier to remove the cheesecake without damaging the crust or sides. If you don’t have one, you can try a regular cake pan lined generously with parchment paper, but be very careful when unmolding.

Can this cheesecake be made gluten-free?

Definitely. Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crackers or nut-based crumbs, and use gluten-free flour for the apple mixture. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake at a low temperature and avoid overbaking. Let it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open for 30 minutes after baking, then chill in the fridge.

Can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salted caramel sauce a day or two ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm gently before drizzling over your cheesecake.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough that you give this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake a try—it’s truly a dessert experience that combines comforting flavors with sophisticated flair. Once you taste the blend of silky cheesecake, tender apples, and that divine salted caramel, it might just become your all-time favorite dessert to share with loved ones or savor on your own. Trust me, every slice is worth the effort!

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 23 reviews

Author: Lana
Total Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A decadent Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake with spiced apples and a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a luscious homemade salted caramel sauce for the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the crust and cheesecake.
Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool completely to set before adding the layers.
Prepare Apple Layer: In a large bowl, toss peeled and sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour to evenly coat the apples with the spices and thicken them slightly during baking.
Assemble Apple Layer: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust in the pan.
Make Cheesecake Batter: Using a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to ensure a smooth batter. Then mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter gently over the apple layer in the pan, spreading evenly.
Bake Cheesecake: Bake in the oven for 60-70 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to ensure a creamy texture.
Cool and Chill: Remove cheesecake from oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
Make Salted Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup granulated sugar without stirring until it turns amber in color. Add butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt to make the salted caramel sauce.
Serve: Drizzle the chilled cheesecake with the salted caramel sauce just before serving for a delicious finishing touch.

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
Do not overbake the cheesecake to maintain a creamy texture.
Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the apple layer to prevent sogginess.
Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American