Luxurious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe

Luxurious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham crackers, crushed)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of spice)
For the Caramel Apple Topping:
3 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite baking apple)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1/3 cup heavy cream
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
For the Caramel Drizzle:
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides with cooking spray or butter.

Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Press the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact the crumbs firmly.

Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Mix the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sugar and beat until combined and fluffy.

Add the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Add Vanilla and Sour Cream: Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and cinnamon (if using) to the mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated.

Add the Flour: Add the flour and mix until just combined. This will help ensure the cheesecake has the right consistency.

Pour the Filling into the Pan: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. You can test doneness by gently shaking the pan—if the center moves slightly, it’s done.

Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking. After 1 hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping
Cook the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

Add Sugar and Spices: Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) to the skillet. Stir to coat the apples evenly. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the caramel sauce becomes smooth and glossy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more cinnamon or sugar if desired.

Cool the Topping: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the apple topping cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake for serving.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has chilled, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the caramel apple topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake.

Add Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples and cheesecake for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.

Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for added crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Serve
Slice and Serve: Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve with extra caramel sauce on the side if desired.