Are you looking for a dessert that combines the best flavors of fall? Then, go no further than this irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake.
With layers of smooth cheesecake and caramel apple topping, it’s just a perfect treat. So now, it’s time we make it.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
A Caramel Apple Cheesecake recipe that features smooth filling, sweep apples, and caramel drizzle. It’s the perfect fall dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling
- 1 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker crust
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup caramel sauce
- 12 pecan halves
- ⅔ cup chopped pecans
Substitute Ingredients
If you’re missing ingredients, there are easy swaps for this recipe. Use graham crackers, gingersnaps, or crushed digestive biscuits for the crust instead of pre-made pie crust.
Swap apple pie filling with fresh apples cooked in sugar and cinnamon. Cream cheese alternatives include mascarpone or ricotta blended for smoothness.
Replace caramel sauce with dulce de leche or maple syrup, and pecans with walnuts or almonds for a nutty crunch!
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to make sure it’s at the perfect temperature by the time you’re ready to bake.
Preheating is a crucial step, so don’t skip it—it ensures your cheesecake bakes evenly and develops that perfect creamy texture.
While the oven warms up, you can get everything else prepped and ready.
2. Fill the Crust with Apples: Take 3/4 cup of the apple pie filling and set it aside—this will be your topping later.
Spread the remaining apple filling evenly into the prepared crust, making sure every bite gets that sweet, spiced apple goodness.
Press the apples down gently to create a smooth, even layer. This apple base adds a deliciously fruity touch to every bite of your cheesecake.
3. Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it’s velvety smooth—this should take a couple of minutes.
Then, crack in the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition. This step ensures a rich, creamy consistency for your cheesecake.
Once the filling is perfectly smooth, pour it over the apple layer in the crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Time to Bake: Place your cheesecake into the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes.
As it bakes, the edges will puff up slightly while the center remains just a little wobbly when you give it a gentle shake.
This slight jiggle means the cheesecake is perfectly baked and will set as it cools.
Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature—it’s important to allow it to set before adding the topping.
5. Create the Caramel Apple Topping: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the reserved 3/4 cup of apple pie filling with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce.
Stir the mixture gently, letting it warm through and thicken slightly—this should only take about a minute.
The combination of warm caramel and tender apple slices creates a topping that’s as indulgent as it is irresistible.
6. Add the Finishing Touches: Once your cheesecake has cooled, it’s time to make it look as amazing as it tastes.
Arrange the apple slices around the edges of the cheesecake in a decorative pattern. Pour the warm caramel apple mixture over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
For an extra touch of elegance and crunch, place pecan halves around the edges and sprinkle chopped pecans across the top.
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
For longer storage, slice it into portions, place them in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen slices overnight in the fridge. Keep toppings fresh by adding them right before serving for the best texture and flavor!
Now that you have prepared this amazing dessert, take your taste buds on a delicious ride and dig in.