Description
This delicious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Slice features a creamy cheesecake filling, topped with caramelized apples and a rich caramel sauce, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional for apple topping)
- Whipped cream (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it’s even and compact. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Prepare the Apple Topping: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until apples are soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and bring to a boil without stirring until it turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in butter, then heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before using.
- Assemble: Once the cheesecake is chilled, top with caramelized apples. Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top. Slice and serve with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- Let the caramel sauce cool before drizzling to prevent melting the cheesecake.
- For added texture, sprinkle some crushed nuts on top with the caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice