This Tasty Caramel Apple Cheesecake Made Easy combines creamy cheesecake, sweet apples, and rich caramel sauce in one irresistible dessert. If you love apple pie and cheesecake, this recipe brings them together for the perfect apple dessert.
With a smooth cheesecake filling, soft spiced apples, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, every slice is packed with comforting flavor. This caramel apple cheesecake is ideal for holidays, special occasions, or when you crave a simple but decadent dessert with apples and creamy cheesecake.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – crush using a food processor or by hand
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons melted butter – to hold the cheesecake base together
For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened – use full-fat for a creamy cheesecake
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar – adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness
• 3 large eggs – added one at a time
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream – for extra creamy texture
For the Apple Topping:
• 3 medium apples, peeled and diced – crisp apples work best for this recipe
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
For the Caramel Sauce:
• ½ cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce – salted caramel works great for extra flavor
• Additional caramel sauce to drizzle over the top
Optional Toppings:
• Crumble topping or apple crumble for extra texture
• Whipped cream
• Thin apple slices for garnish
These simple ingredients create the perfect combination of apple filling, creamy cheesecake, and rich caramel sauce, making this caramel apple cheesecake a delicious and easy dessert.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to smooth it out evenly. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until fully combined. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, beating gently after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure a smooth cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Bake the cheesecake for 50–60 minutes or until the center is almost set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
Step 4: Make the Apple Topping
While the cheesecake bakes, prepare the apple topping. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let the apple topping cool completely.
Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake is cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the cheesecake to firm up and develop its creamy texture.
Step 6: Add the Toppings and Serve
Before serving, spoon the cooled apple topping over the top of the cheesecake. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce or salted caramel sauce for extra sweetness. For an added crunch, sprinkle crumble topping or apple crumble over the apple layer. Garnish with thin apple slices or whipped cream if desired.
Step 7: Slice and Enjoy
Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake. For clean slices, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts. Serve chilled with extra caramel sauce drizzled on each slice.
This caramel apple cheesecake delivers the perfect combination of apple pie flavor, creamy cheesecake filling, and rich caramel drizzle, making it an easy dessert everyone will love.
Pro Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for the Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake:
• Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling with no lumps.
• Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure even baking. Wrap the pan with foil to avoid leaks.
• Let the cheesecake cool gradually by leaving it in the oven with the door slightly open after baking. This helps avoid cracks.
• Always allow the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the apple topping and caramel sauce.
• For a thicker caramel drizzle, simmer your caramel sauce for a few extra minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Tasty Variations to Try:
• Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Use salted caramel sauce instead of regular caramel for a sweet and salty twist.
• Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Add a crumble topping made with oats, butter, and brown sugar for added texture.
• Apple Pie Filling Variation: Swap the fresh apple topping for apple pie filling if you’re short on time.
• Cheesecake Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling into a 9×13 pan and bake for about 30–35 minutes to make caramel apple cheesecake bars.
• Crumble and Salted Caramel Combo: Top your cheesecake with both apple crumble and salted caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream cheese and vegan caramel sauce to create a dairy-free version of this caramel apple cheesecake recipe.
These simple tips and easy variations help you customize your cheesecake with apple, caramel, and your favorite toppings for the perfect apple dessert every time.
Serving Suggestions
This caramel apple cheesecake is rich, creamy, and layered with sweet apple topping and smooth caramel sauce perfect for any occasion. Here are easy ways to serve it:
• Classic Style: Serve chilled with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice for the ultimate caramel apple cheesecake experience.
• Add Apple Slices: Garnish with thinly sliced apples for extra apple flavor and a beautiful presentation.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream to each slice for extra creaminess and a light finish.
• Serve with Crumble Topping: Sprinkle crumble topping or apple crumble over the apple layer for added crunch and texture.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy this apple dessert alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
• Perfect for Holidays: This creamy caramel apple cheesecake makes a great centerpiece for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or special occasions.
Whether you love the richness of cheesecake, the sweetness of apples, or the smooth caramel drizzle, this dessert delivers the perfect combination of flavors for apple and cheesecake lovers alike.
Conclusion
This Tasty Caramel Apple Cheesecake Made Easy brings together everything you love about apple desserts and creamy cheesecake. With layers of smooth cheesecake filling, sweet apple topping, and rich caramel sauce, every bite is full of comfort and indulgence.
The combination of apples, caramel, and cheesecake makes this dessert perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply treating yourself. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this caramel apple cheesecake at home without stress.
Whether you’re a fan of apple pie, cheesecake, or crave the sweetness of caramel, this dessert offers the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Try this recipe and enjoy a slice of rich, creamy caramel apple cheesecake with your favorite toppings.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened full-fat recommended
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs added one at a time
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup sour cream
Apple Topping
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced crisp apples recommended
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
Toppings
- 0.5 cup caramel sauce salted caramel recommended
- to taste whipped cream, crumble topping, apple slices optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar, mix well. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla and sour cream; mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Tap gently to remove air bubbles. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the center is nearly set.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Remove and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 8–10 minutes until apples soften. Let cool completely.
- Before serving, top the cheesecake with the cooled apple topping. Drizzle with caramel sauce. Add crumble topping or apple slices if desired.
- Slice the cheesecake with a clean knife, wiping between cuts. Serve chilled with extra caramel sauce on each slice.
Notes
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 260mg
- Potassium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 31g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 850 IU
- Vitamin C: 3mg
- Calcium: 90mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
FAQs
Why does caramel slide off apples?
Caramel can slide off apples if the apples have wax on their skin or are too wet. Always wash apples thoroughly, dry them completely, and use fresh, unwaxed apples for better caramel adhesion.
What does caramel apple cheesecake taste like?
Caramel apple cheesecake tastes like a rich, creamy cheesecake combined with the sweet, spiced flavor of apple pie and a smooth caramel drizzle. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity.
How long will caramel apple cheesecake last?
Caramel apple cheesecake lasts up to 4–5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For the best texture, add the apple topping and caramel sauce just before serving.
How to thicken caramel for caramel apple cheesecake?
To thicken caramel, simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes until it reduces and thickens. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Thick caramel works best for drizzling over cheesecake or apples.
Should apples be cold when making caramel apples?
Yes, slightly chilled apples help the caramel set quickly and stick better. Make sure the apples are completely dry and cool, but not frozen, to prevent the caramel from sliding off.
