If you are craving a dessert that perfectly balances the warm, comforting flavors of fall with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, you are in for an absolute treat. This Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe brings together tender, spiced apples, a buttery graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and a luscious salted caramel drizzle that will have everyone asking for seconds. Every bite melts in your mouth, with just the right hint of sea salt cutting through the sweetness for an unforgettable experience that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe is a breeze since each one plays a key role in building the delicious layers of flavor and texture that make this dessert so special.
- 4 medium apples: Chosen for their firmness and sweetness to provide the perfect spiced apple filling.
- 3 tbsp butter: Used to cook the apple filling and add richness.
- Brown sugar (for apple filling): Adds natural sweetness and caramel notes when cooked with the apples.
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice (warm spice blend): A cozy mix that lifts the apple filling to full autumn glory.
- 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs: Creates a crunchy, flavorful crust with a hint of spice.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: Binds the crust crumbs together for that perfect crumbly base.
- 32 oz cream cheese (room temperature): The heart of the cheesecake, ensuring smooth and creamy texture.
- Sugar (for cheesecake filling): Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right.
- 4 large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the cheesecake filling.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the creaminess with a subtle warm flavor.
- Sour cream: Gives the filling a slight tang and silky texture.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake while keeping it tender.
- 1/2 cup oats: Used in the crumble topping for a pleasant chew and rustic look.
- Brown sugar (for crumble): Adds deep sweetness and crunch to the topping.
- Cold butter cubes: Creates flaky, buttery crumble pieces.
- 1 cup sugar (for caramel): The foundation of the rich caramel sauce.
- 6 tbsp butter (for caramel): Provides smoothness and depth to the caramel.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce luxuriously creamy.
- Sea salt: The star seasoning that balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Apple Filling and Crust
Start by peeling and chopping the apples into tender, bite-sized pieces. Cook them gently in butter with brown sugar and your warm spice blend until they become soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. While the apples simmer, mix the cinnamon graham cracker crumbs with melted butter to form your crust. Press this mixture firmly into your springform pan and bake it for 20 minutes. Allow the crust to cool completely, giving it a chance to set perfectly before layering the cheesecake.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling and Layer
Now for the creamy heart of the recipe. Beat your room-temperature cream cheese until silky smooth, then slowly add sugar and eggs one by one to keep the batter light and airy. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until everything is blended just right. Pour half of this luscious filling over the cooled crust, spread a generous layer of your spiced apple filling on top, then cover with the remaining cheesecake mixture. This layering ensures every slice has a beautiful balance of creamy cheesecake and tender apples.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake with a Water Bath
To achieve that silky, crack-free finish, place your cheesecake pan inside a larger baking dish filled halfway with hot water—this water bath helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents it from drying out. Bake for 90 to 110 minutes, watching for the edges to be set while the center still has a slight wobble. This is the sign of perfect doneness. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open, then bring it to room temperature before chilling overnight for best results.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping and Caramel Sauce, then Assemble
While the cheesecake chills, make the crumble topping by combining oats, brown sugar, and cold butter cubes, rubbing them together until crumbly. Bake this topping separately until golden and crunchy. Next, create the salted caramel sauce by melting sugar carefully until it reaches a deep amber color, then whisking in butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of sea salt until smooth and glossy. Just before serving, sprinkle the crumble generously over the cheesecake and drizzle with the warm caramel sauce, creating a stunning presentation and a delightful contrast of textures.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning finishing touch, scatter some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts across the top for extra crunch and nutty flavor. A few fresh apple slices or thin curls add a fresh, crisp element that contrasts beautifully with the richness. Don’t forget a light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar to make it look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream, bringing an icy contrast to the creamy dessert. For a lighter option, fresh whipped cream flavored with a hint of maple syrup complements the salted caramel and apple notes perfectly without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices on rustic wooden boards or elegant dessert plates drizzled with extra caramel sauce artistically swirled. For parties, consider cutting mini cheesecake squares garnished with a small apple chip or caramel drizzle for bite-sized delights that will wow your guests. This Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your dessert, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Your cheesecake will stay fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, allowing you to savor every bite without worry.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months by wrapping it well in plastic and foil. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve its perfect texture and flavor. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for celebrations.
Reheating
Because cheesecake is best served chilled, simply let your thawed slices come to room temperature for about 20 minutes if desired. If you want to gently warm the caramel topping, do so briefly in a microwave-safe dish, careful not to overheat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for the recipe?
Absolutely! While firm, sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best to hold texture during cooking, feel free to experiment with your favorites for subtle differences in flavor and sweetness.
How do I avoid cracks on my cheesecake top?
The water bath method is your best friend as it provides gentle, even heat around the cheesecake, preventing cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and be sure not to overbake; a slight wobble in the center is perfect.
Can I make this Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives and use gluten-free oats for the crumble topping. Make sure any other processed ingredients, like vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free.
Is there a shortcut to making the salted caramel sauce?
While homemade caramel has the best flavor, you can use store-bought caramel sauce and add a pinch of sea salt to mimic that perfect salted caramel taste if you’re short on time.
What’s the best way to cut cheesecake neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing each piece. This prevents sticking and gives clean, beautiful slices every time.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe captures all the magic of fall with its tender spices, creamy filling, and irresistible caramel finish. I promise it’s worth every minute of preparation because the resulting flavors and textures bring pure joy. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy weekend treat, this cheesecake will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll return to time and time again.
Print
Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 50 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes plus chilling overnight
- Yield: 1 9-inch cheesecake (about 12 servings), stores for up to 3 months frozen; thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines tender, spiced apple filling with a creamy cheesecake base, topped with a buttery crumble and rich salted caramel sauce. Baked in a water bath to ensure a smooth and velvety texture, this dessert is perfect for special occasions and pairs beautifully with the warm flavors of cinnamon and autumn spices.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 3 tbsp butter
- Brown sugar, to taste (approx. 1/4 cup)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp allspice
Crust
- 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 32 oz (4 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cold butter cubes
Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the spiced apple filling and crust: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Cook until apples are tender and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, mix the cinnamon graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup melted butter and press evenly into a springform pan. Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes and let it cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling and layer: Beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each. Blend in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until just combined. Spread half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, then layer the spiced apple filling evenly. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top and smooth the surface.
- Bake using the water bath method: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan into a larger roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 90 to 110 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center slightly wobbles when shaken. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool gradually for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then remove from the water bath and cool completely.
- Prepare the crumble topping and salted caramel sauce; assemble: For the crumble, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, and cold butter cubes. Use fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly. Bake the crumble in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until golden. For the caramel sauce, melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat without stirring until it turns amber. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted, then slowly add heavy cream while stirring. Stir in sea salt and let cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle the crumble topping over the chilled cheesecake and drizzle generously with salted caramel sauce. Chill overnight in the refrigerator for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in batter.
- Use a water bath to prevent overbaking and cracking of cheesecake.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavors and helps the cheesecake set perfectly.
- Adjust the amount of sea salt in caramel sauce to taste preference.
- Store leftover cheesecake covered in refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Apples can be substituted with pears for a different variation.
