Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake: A Cozy Fall Dessert

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a slice of creamy, cozy cheesecake to warm your heart. Picture this: a luscious cheesecake nestled between layers of tender, spiced apples and topped with a drizzle of rich salted caramel. Instant comfort, right? This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake combines the best of both worlds—a classic autumn pie and a creamy cheesecake—making it a perfect centerpiece for your fall gatherings.

Every time I prepare this treat, I’m reminded of my childhood, pulling fresh apples from the orchard with my family. The air was filled with sweet scents of baking spices and laughter floated through the kitchen. This dessert evokes those delightful memories, making it not just a dessert, but a piece of nostalgia. If you’re looking for an indulgent treat to share or simply want to cozy up at home, this creamy fall dessert is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Sharing: This cheesecake is a showstopper—a great addition for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
• Layers of Flavor: With spiced apples, velvety cream cheese, and decadent crumble topping, each bite offers a delightful taste experience.
• Comforting and Festive: Ideal for fall, this dessert captures the essence of the season and makes every gathering feel special.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep components ahead of time, so it’s easy to pull together when you’re busy.
• A Visual Delight: The combination of creamy cheesecake, golden apple pie filling, and crunchy crumble makes it a feast for the eyes!

What You’ll Need

Gather These Simple Ingredients:

• For the Apple Filling:

  • 4 medium apples (588 grams sliced)
  • 3 tbsp salted butter (42 grams)
  • 1-2 tbsp apple cider
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed (73 grams)
  • 1 and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/8 tsp allspice
  • 1-2 tsp lemon juice (to taste)
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 2 tsp water

• For the Cheesecake Crust:

  • 3 cups cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (300 grams)
  • 1/2 cup + 3 tbsp salted butter, melted (155 grams)

• For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 32 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature (use the full-fat, block style)
  • 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar (308 grams)
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 and 1/2 tsp corn starch
  • 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature (180 grams)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/8 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (33 grams)

• For the Crumble Topping:

  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats (48 grams)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed (55 grams)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup cold salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp, or 57 grams)

• For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar (210 grams)
  • 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed (85 grams)
  • 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream (135 grams)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt

Let’s Make It Together

Prep:

1. Read through the recipe before you begin to ensure you have everything you need; there are a few elements at play here.
2. You can break things down over multiple days to simplify the process! Make-ahead tips are included at the bottom.

Make the Apple Filling:

3. Peel and slice your apples between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick.
4. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, add all apple filling ingredients. Cook for 8-14 minutes, stirring lazily until desired tenderness is reached. If the liquid evaporates, add a splash more cider or water.
5. Once apples are tender, mix 2 tsp cornstarch with 2 tsp water until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the apple filling over medium heat until thickened.

Make the Crust:

6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and ensure the bottom is securely fastened.
8. Stir together the crust ingredients and press them into the prepared pan, slightly up the sides. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside, then keep the oven on at 350°F.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

9. Ensure your cream cheese and other cold ingredients are at room temperature. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy (about 1-2 minutes).
10. Add sugar and mix until well incorporated, scraping the sides of the bowl.
11. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on medium speed until incorporated. Follow with vanilla, cornstarch, sour cream, and spices—mix until just incorporated.
12. Pour half the batter into the baked crust. Spoon the apple filling over the top, then pour remaining batter evenly.

Prep Water Bath:

13. Set your cheesecake pan on a rack positioned in the center of the oven. Place a roasting pan below it, and pour boiling water into the roasting pan to create a water bath. This protects your cheesecake from the oven’s heat, ensuring it stays creamy.

Bake:

14. Bake for 1 hour and 30 to 1 hour and 50 minutes. The edges should be slightly raised, and the center will have a slight wobble when done. Use a knife to check the edges; it should come out with a small amount of thick batter.
15. When ready, turn off the oven and crack the door open for one hour to cool before removing.

Cool & Chill:

16. Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or ideally up to 1 day before serving.

Make the Crumble Topping:

17. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
18. Whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until you have a crumbly mixture.
19. Spread the crumble evenly on the sheet pan and bake for 12 to 20 minutes until golden and crunchy.

Make Salted Caramel Sauce:

20. Prepare the caramel sauce by following a simple Salted Caramel Sauce recipe. Allow it to cool before decorating your cheesecake.

Make Apple Pie Topping:

21. Repeat the steps for the apple filling, slicing your apples between 1/2 and 3/4 inch thick, then cooking them in a medium pan.

Serve + Store:

22. Once the cheesecake is cooled, top it with the apple pie filling, a generous layer of the crumble topping, and a drizzle of the cooled caramel sauce. Slice and enjoy the cozy delight!

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Apple Filling/Topping: This dish can be made up to a day ahead; store in an airtight container.
• Caramel Sauce: Make this up to 5 days in advance; cool and store in a mason jar in the fridge.
• Crumble: Prepare this 2-3 days ahead, cool, and keep in an airtight container at room temperature.

Variations & Creative Twists

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for an extra crunch.
• Pumpkin Spice: For a fall twist, try mixing in some pumpkin puree to the cheesecake filling along with the spices.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the salted caramel can add a delicious richness.
• Fruit Medley: Mix in different fruits with your apples, like pears or cranberries, for a zesty flavor boost.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always let your cold ingredients come to room temperature for a smoother cheesecake filling.
• Foil Wrap Tip: For a leak-proof water bath, wrap the springform pan with heavy-duty foil.
• Slicing Secrets: Run your knife under hot water before slicing to get clean cuts on your cheesecake.

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
• Calories: 485
• Carbs: 63g
• Sugar: 42g
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 320mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead?
  Absolutely! Almost all components can be made a day or two ahead of time.

• Can I use different ingredients?
  Yes! Substitute your favorite nut butters or dairy-free cream cheese for a twist.

• How do I store leftovers?
  Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• How long does it last?
  When properly stored, this cheesecake can last up to a week!

A Cozy Closing Note

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake brings warmth and comfort to the table, perfect for tasting or serving to loved ones any time of year. Whether you’re enjoying it after a chilly day outdoors or sharing it at a celebration, this recipe is bound to become a cherished tradition. Save this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake to your dessert board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy baking!