Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the ultimate Thanksgiving dessert with this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic flavors of apple pie, this decadent treat is topped with a luscious layer of salted caramel that will leave everyone craving more. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this show-stopping dessert will elevate your Thanksgiving feast and delight your family and friends.
This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the perfect way to combine two classic desserts into one delicious experience. The creamy cheesecake base paired with spiced apple pie filling and topped with rich salted caramel creates a treat that is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love It
- Combines two beloved desserts into one
- Perfect for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings
- Rich, creamy texture with a sweet and salty topping
The Perfect Thanksgiving Delight
When it comes to holiday desserts, the combination of flavors and textures is pivotal. This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake elegantly marries the creamy, tangy characteristics of cheesecake with the warm, spiced notes of classic apple pie. Each bite offers a smooth cheesecake layer complemented by soft, tender apples, making it an enticing centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.
Thanksgiving is all about gatherings and sharing moments of joy with family and friends. Serving a dessert that is visually appealing and delicious can elevate the overall dining experience. This cheesecake not only looks stunning but also provides a balance of sweetness and richness, leaving your guests eagerly anticipating each slice.
A Show-Stopping Dessert
Impressing your guests this holiday season has never been easier with this spectacular cheesecake. The golden layer of salted caramel drizzled on top brings a sophisticated finish that enhances the overall flavor profile. The contrast of sweet caramel against the tartness of the apples creates a delightful explosion of taste that’s bound to please everyone’s palate.
Not only does this dessert taste amazing, but it also serves as a perfect conversation starter. Its multi-layered format and striking appearance make it a definite showstopper at any gathering, ensuring that it becomes the talk of the table now and long after the last bite.
Easy to Make and Enjoy
Despite its elegant presentation, this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is surprisingly easy to prepare. With straightforward steps to follow, even novice bakers can create this culinary masterpiece. The use of essential ingredients means that you won’t need to hunt for any special elements, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.
The satisfying process of layering the cheesecake filling and apple mixture allows for creativity in presentation. Get the family involved, as it’s a delightful opportunity to bond in the kitchen while preparing a treat that everyone will rave about. The best part - you can make it a day in advance, freeing up your time for other holiday preparations.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Apple Filling
- 3 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Salted Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Gather all ingredients before starting.
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside.
Make the Apple Filling
In a saucepan, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the sour cream until well blended.
Layer the Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust. Add a layer of the apple filling, then pour the remaining cheesecake mixture on top.
Bake and Cool
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until the center is set. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Salted Caramel
In a saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat until melted and golden brown. Stir in the butter and then slowly add the heavy cream. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
Serve
Drizzle the salted caramel over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake!
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesecake
To achieve the perfect creamy texture for your cheesecake, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps prevent lumps and ensures the batter is smooth. Mixing thoroughly but gently is key to incorporating air without over-beating, which can lead to cracks during baking.
Another important aspect is to let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating. This prevents condensation from forming, which can create a watery consistency atop your dessert. For the best results, consider chilling it overnight; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully for an even richer experience.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
If you're looking to add a twist to this classic dessert, consider incorporating other fruits alongside apples. Pears or cranberries work wonderfully and provide a beautiful color contrast. Additionally, experimenting with flavored extracts—like almond or maple—can introduce a unique depth to your cheesecake.
When it comes to serving, pair your cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the overall experience. A sprinkle of chopped nuts can also add a pleasant crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy filling and making each bite unforgettable.
Storing and Freezing Your Cheesecake
To keep your salted caramel apple pie cheesecake fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container. Enjoy it within 4 to 5 days for the best flavor and texture. If you’d like to prepare ahead, consider freezing portions for later enjoyment.
When freezing, slice the cheesecake into portions, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and further secure it in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy, and be sure to re-drizzle with a fresh layer of salted caramel for an irresistible treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought caramel sauce if you're short on time.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
Experience the ultimate Thanksgiving dessert with this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic flavors of apple pie, this decadent treat is topped with a luscious layer of salted caramel that will leave everyone craving more. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this show-stopping dessert will elevate your Thanksgiving feast and delight your family and friends.
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cheesecake
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Apple Filling
- 3 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Salted Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the sour cream until well blended.
Pour half of the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust. Add a layer of the apple filling, then pour the remaining cheesecake mixture on top.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until the center is set. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
In a saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat until melted and golden brown. Stir in the butter and then slowly add the heavy cream. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
Drizzle the salted caramel over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 5g