Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake – Best Fall Dessert Recipe

Apple pie is a classic, but when you combine it with the creamy, rich texture of cheesecake and a salted caramel twist, you create a dessert that’s simply irresistible. This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the perfect way to celebrate fall with its sweet caramelized apples, buttery graham cracker crust, and indulgent salted caramel sauce. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just craving a slice of comfort, this cheesecake delivers all the flavors you love about apple pie in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth form.

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the ideal fall dessert for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make despite its sophisticated look. With a crisp graham cracker crust, a creamy cinnamon-flavored cheesecake filling, and a generous layer of caramelized apples, it’s a dream come true for anyone who loves apple pie but prefers the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake. The addition of salted caramel sauce takes this dessert to the next level, providing a perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:
• Apples: Adds sweetness and a tender texture when caramelized.
• Salted Butter: Gives richness and flavor to the apple filling.
• Light Brown Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the apples.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Allspice: These warm spices give the apples that signature fall flavor.
• Lemon Juice: A touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple filling.

For the Crust:
• Cinnamon Graham Cracker Crumbs: The perfect base with a slightly sweet and spicy flavor.
• Salted Butter: Helps the crumbs hold together and adds richness.
• Sugar: A little sweetness to round out the crust.

For the Cheesecake Filling:
• Cream Cheese: The base of the cheesecake, giving it a creamy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
• Eggs: Bind everything together while providing structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a layer of deep flavor.
• Sour Cream: Makes the filling extra creamy.
• Cinnamon: A touch of spice to enhance the overall flavor.

For the Crumble Topping:
• All-purpose Flour: Forms the base of the crumble topping.
• Rolled Oats: Adds texture and a bit of chew.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens and helps with the crumble’s golden color.
• Salted Butter: For richness and crispiness.

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
• Granulated Sugar: The foundation for the caramel sauce.
• Salted Butter: Adds depth and flavor to the caramel.
• Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce a smooth, velvety texture.
• Flaky Sea Salt: The finishing touch that gives the salted caramel flavor its distinctive kick.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Gluten-Free Option: To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives, though the texture may slightly differ.
• Peach or Pineapple Variation: For a fruity twist, substitute the apples with peaches or pineapple for a different seasonal flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Apple Filling: Peel and slice apples into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces. In a medium saucepan, cook them with salted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Stir occasionally for about 8-14 minutes, until the apples are tender. Add cornstarch and water to thicken the mixture, then set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and cinnamon. Mix until combined, being careful not to overmix. Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, followed by a layer of apple filling, and then top with the remaining cheesecake mixture. Smooth it out with a spatula.
4. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour to 1 hour and 50 minutes. The cheesecake should be slightly raised at the edges and still have a slight wobble in the center. Let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 6 hours or overnight.
5. Make the Crumble Topping: While the cheesecake cools, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
6. Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt sugar until golden brown. Add butter and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
7. Assemble and Serve: Once the cheesecake is chilled, top it with the apple topping, crumble, and a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Slice and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the cheesecake batter can cause it to rise too much during baking, resulting in cracks. Mix just until incorporated.
• Make-Ahead: This cheesecake can be made in advance. Prepare the crust, filling, and topping up to two days ahead, and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

• Side Dishes: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel sauce for a sweet-spicy contrast.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and ensure the caramel sauce is made with gluten-free ingredients.

Conclusion

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate fall dessert that brings together all your favorite flavors in one indulgent treat. From the creamy cinnamon cheesecake filling to the sweet, caramelized apples and the luscious salted caramel sauce, every bite is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a special gathering or simply want a cozy dessert for the season, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. With its make-ahead nature and delightful toppings, it’s a stress-free yet spectacular choice for any occasion.

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Oreo Balls for Christmas: These indulgent no-bake treats are made with crushed Oreos, cream cheese, and a layer of chocolate coating, perfect for the holidays. They offer a creamy, chocolatey flavor that’s similar to the richness found in a salted caramel apple pie cheesecake.
• Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs: A savory dish with a hint of sweetness from the orange and cranberry sauce. The flavor profile pairs well with the fruity notes found in apple-based desserts, creating a sweet and savory contrast to the cheesecake’s richness.
• Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: A decadent pie with a rich chocolate and pecan filling that’s the perfect counterpart to apple pie, combining comforting fall flavors and a hint of nuttiness, just like the salted caramel apple pie cheesecake.

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