Caramel Apple Cheesecake blends two classic desserts into one unforgettable bite. With a buttery graham cracker crust, spiced apple filling, creamy cheesecake center, and golden caramel drizzle, this indulgent treat is everything you love about fall. Whether you’re hosting a holiday, baking for a cozy weekend, or just craving comfort in dessert form, this cheesecake delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, smooth cheesecake texture
- Warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling
- Easy graham cracker crust
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Holiday-worthy presentation with minimal effort
- Drizzled with luscious caramel for that extra wow factor
Caramel Apple Cheesecake – A Cozy Fall Dessert Masterpiece
Ingredients
For the Crust
For the Apple Filling
For the Cheesecake
For the Caramel Sauce
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs1/3 cup melted butter1/4 cup sugar3 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)1/2 cup brown sugar1 tsp cinnamon1/4 tsp nutmeg2 tbsp butter24 oz cream cheese, softened1 cup sugar3 large eggs1 tsp vanilla extract1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the CrustPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while preparing the filling.Step 2: Cook the Apple FillingIn a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.Step 3: Make the Cheesecake BatterIn a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.Step 4: Assemble the CheesecakeSpread the apple filling evenly over the cooled crust. Pour the cheesecake batter on top and smooth out the surface with a spatula.Step 5: BakePlace the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake sit inside for 1 hour.Step 6: Chill & ServeRemove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Just before serving, drizzle the top generously with caramel sauce.
Notes
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Apple Filling
- 3 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Cheesecake
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter until tender (about 10 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Batter
Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each. Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
Layer the apple mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Pour cheesecake batter on top and smooth the surface.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 55–60 minutes or until the center is nearly set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
Tips & Tricks
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced flavor
- Make your own caramel for a richer, homemade touch
- Let ingredients come to room temperature for smoother batter
- Avoid overmixing once eggs are added to prevent cracking
- Cool cheesecake gradually to maintain texture
Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 6+ hours (including chill time)
Yield: 12 slices
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Moderate
Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, nut-free
Notes
This cheesecake is a show-stopper for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s freezer-friendly and even better the next day!
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best made a day in advance for the flavors to set.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Absolutely. A pre-made graham crust saves time.
What apples work best?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp — they hold shape and add a tart-sweet balance.
Storage
Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 1 month.
Similar Recipes
- Baked Apple Crumble Cheesecake
- Classic New York Cheesecake
- Salted Caramel Pecan Pie
- Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Cheesecake brings warm spices, creamy texture, and sweet caramel together in one impressive dessert. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special and satisfying.