The Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and tart flavors of caramelized apples. Perfect for autumn celebrations, holidays, or any time you want a luxurious and flavorful treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Here’s how to make this delicious dessert from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Caramelized Apples:

• 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup water
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

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2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Mix in the sour cream, followed by the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, and mix until fully combined.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

3. Prepare the Caramelized Apples:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let the caramelized apples cool slightly.
4. Arrange the caramelized apple slices on top of the cheesecake filling in an even layer.

4. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.
3. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.

5. Make the Caramel Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil.
2. Continue boiling until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
3. Remove from heat and carefully add the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious.
4. Stir until smooth and well combined. Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly.

6. Serve the Cheesecake:

1. Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
2. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
3. Garnish with additional caramelized apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
4. Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for clean slices.
5. Serve and enjoy this luscious Caramel Apple Cheesecake!

Tips:

• For a more intense apple flavor, you can add a tablespoon of apple cider to the caramelized apple mixture.
• If you prefer a thicker crust, you can increase the amount of graham cracker crumbs and butter in the crust recipe.
• The cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion:

The Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a luxurious and flavorful dessert that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet and tart flavors of caramelized apples and rich caramel sauce. Perfect for autumn or any special occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste. Enjoy every decadent bite of this indulgent treat!