As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of cinnamon mingling with sweet apples brought me back to crisp autumn afternoons spent baking with loved ones. That familiar warmth inspired this Ultimate Apple Pie Cheesecake with Salted Caramel Drizzle—a delightful fusion that marries the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the comforting charm of homemade apple pie. With a crunchy cinnamon graham cracker crust, this dessert isn’t just an eye-catching centerpiece; it’s a quick crowd-pleaser that will elevate any fall gathering. Plus, it can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for busy bakers. Ready to indulge in this slice of heaven? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why is this Apple Pie Cheesecake a Must-Try? Decadent Fusion: This dessert combines two classics, offering the creamy richness of cheesecake blended with the familiar comfort of apple pie. Irresistible Topping: Topped with sweet caramel, spiced apples, and a crunchy streusel, each bite is a delightful surprise. Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress family and friends, making it an accessible choice for all skill levels. Make-Ahead Marvel: Perfect for busy days, you can create it in advance and chill overnight for intense flavor, as you might with my Oatmeal Apple Breakfast. Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner party, this cheesecake is certain to steal the spotlight and leave guests asking for seconds. Apple Pie Cheesecake Ingredients For the Cheesecake • Granulated White Sugar – Sweetness for both the salted caramel sauce and cheesecake; consider using brown sugar for a richer taste. • Unsalted Butter – Provides creaminess; if you want an extra flavor boost, opt for salted butter. • Heavy Cream – Ensures a luxuriously smooth caramel sauce; you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version. • Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth; almond extract can be used for a unique twist. • Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess; plain yogurt works as a great substitute. • Eggs – Essential for structure; if vegan, try flax eggs or silken tofu instead. • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Allspice – These spices provide comforting warmth; pumpkin pie spice is a fine alternative. For the Crust • Graham Crackers – Form the base of the cheesecake; crushed digestive biscuits or Oreos make tasty replacements. For the Apple Topping • Apples – The star of the show; tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully here. • Brown Sugar – Adds a delightful molasses flavor to the topping; coconut sugar can also be an option. For the Caramel Drizzle • Salt – Enhances the flavors in the caramel; be sure to adjust to your personal preference. • Heavy Cream (another option) – Contributes to the caramel’s texture; half-and-half makes a lighter sauce if preferred. Get ready to whip up this irresistible apple pie cheesecake that seamlessly blends the best of both worlds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ultimate Apple Pie Cheesecake with Salted Caramel Drizzle Step 1: Make Salted Caramel Sauce In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir continuously until it melts into a rich, amber liquid—about 10 minutes. Gradually whisk in 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, followed by 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Remove from heat, cool for 10 minutes, and set aside. Step 2: Prepare Springform Pan Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it heats, take a 9-inch springform pan and wrap its bottom with aluminum foil to create a seal. This prevents any water from seeping in during the water bath process. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan to prepare for baking your Ultimate Apple Pie Cheesecake. Step 3: Make Crust In a food processor, pulse 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown, then let it cool completely while you prepare the filling. Step 4: Mix Cheesecake Filling In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, mixing well. Then, blend in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon each of nutmeg and allspice. Gently add 3 eggs, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing. Step 5: Bake Cheesecake with Water Bath Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust in the springform pan. Carefully place the pan in the preheated roasting pan, then pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake for 1 hour, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let it cool in the oven with the door ajar for another hour. Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate After cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to achieve the best flavor and texture for your Ultimate Apple Pie Cheesecake. Step 7: Prepare Apple Pie Topping In a saucepan, add 3 cups of peeled and diced apples, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before topping the cheesecake. Step 8: Make Streusel Topping In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt. Use your fingers to crumble the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Spread the streusel on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden, stirring halfway through for even browning. Step 9: Assemble Cheesecake Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, remove it from the springform pan. Drizzle a generous amount of the salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake. Next, spoon the cooled apple mixture on top, followed by an even layer of the streusel topping. For an extra touch, pipe cream cheese frosting around the edges and serve your Ultimate Apple Pie Cheesecake with additional caramel drizzle. Expert Tips for Apple Pie Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter. Avoid Overmixing: When adding eggs, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense apple pie cheesecake rather than a light, fluffy one. Water Bath Importance: Utilizing a water bath is key! It promotes even baking and prevents cracks on the surface of your cheesecake for a beautiful presentation. Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, allow your cheesecake to chill overnight; this helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing easier. Streusel Variation: Feel free to add nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts to your streusel for an extra crunch that complements the apple pie cheesecake beautifully. What to Serve with Ultimate Apple Pie Cheesecake? Indulging in a rich slice of cheesecake opens the door to endless possibilities for delightful accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the apple flavors, enhancing every decadent bite of cheesecake. Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch that balances the richness of the cheesecake and offers delightful texture. Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: These soft, spiced cookies pair beautifully with the apple pie cheesecake, reinforcing the cozy flavors of fall. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the dessert’s richness, creating a harmonious end to your meal. For a unique twist, try serving your cheesecake with a slice of spiced pumpkin bread. The harmonious blend of spices will resonate with the cheesecake’s bold flavors, making each bite a nostalgic experience. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit medley adds a burst of color and a light, refreshing element to balance the cheesecake’s richness. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Extra caramel not only enhances presentation but provides an extra layer of sweetness and depth, enticing everyone to dig in. Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, drizzling warm chocolate ganache offers a beautiful contrast to the apple pie cheesecake’s flavors. Sparkling Cider: A glass of bubbly cider adds a festive touch, enhancing the celebration of flavors that this cheesecake embodies. How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie Cheesecake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; it will maintain its creamy texture and flavors beautifully for several days. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Slice Storage: Cut into individual slices before freezing, making it easy to enjoy a piece whenever you crave this apple pie cheesecake. Reheating: Let it come to room temperature before serving, or warm slices in the microwave for just a few seconds if you prefer a cozy dessert experience. Apple Pie Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore creative twists on this delightful dessert that will surprise and please your taste buds! Fruit Swap: Replace apples with sliced pears for a refreshing twist—this pairs wonderfully with the spices. The soft, juicy pears will create a lovely, seasonal flavor. Nutty Streusel: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel topping for added crunch. This delightful crunch complements the cheesecake’s creaminess for a richer bite. Chocolate Crust: Use crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for a chocolatey crust. The chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with apple and caramel, offering a sweet surprise. Vegan Option: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use flax eggs or silken tofu for the cheesecake filling. You won’t miss a thing concerning that rich flavor! Pumpkin Spice: Swap the warm spices in the filling for pumpkin pie spice to create a unique fall twist. Each slice will burst with delightful autumnal flavors that capture the season. Creamy Topping: Replace the cream cheese frosting with a light whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free finish. This airy topping beautifully balances the cheesecake’s richness. Caramel Infusion: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the salted caramel sauce for an adult twist. This not only enhances flavor but also brings warmth, perfect for gathering with friends. Extra Spice: Infuse the apple topping with freshly grated ginger for a zesty kick. This can elevate the comforting flavors and add a layer of complexity to each bite. Don’t forget, while you’re at it, to try our Apple Brownies Decadent or sip on some refreshing Apple Iced Tea alongside—the perfect treats that celebrate this wonderful fruit! Make Ahead Options These Ultimate Apple Pie Cheesecakes are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delicious flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and crust up to 24 hours in advance; just let them cool completely before wrapping tightly and refrigerating. Additionally, the apple topping can be cooked a day ahead, stored in the fridge, and simply warmed before serving. To maintain the cheesecake’s creamy texture, ensure all components are covered properly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, assemble with streusel and a drizzle of salted caramel for a stunning presentation that tastes just as fresh as the day you made it! Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of apples should I use for the topping? Absolutely! For the best apple pie topping, opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their natural tartness beautifully balances the sweetness of the caramel and enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake. How should I store leftovers? Very! Store any leftover Apple Pie Cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This will help maintain its creamy texture and delightful flavors, allowing you to enjoy this indulgent dessert for a few more days. Can I freeze the cheesecake? Of course! To freeze your Apple Pie Cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results, and don’t forget to drizzle some fresh salted caramel on top for that extra kick! What can I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking? Ah, no worries! A common troubleshooting tip is to make sure you’re using a water bath during baking—this helps regulate the temperature and keeps the cheesecake moist. If it does crack, simply cover it with your apple topping and streusel, and no one will notice! For a flawless finish, always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to avoid overmixing after adding the eggs. Is this cheesecake suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Certainly! If you have dietary considerations, there are alternatives you can use. For a vegan version, you can replace eggs with flax eggs or silken tofu, and use dairy-free cream cheese. Always check labels for allergens if you’re cooking for someone with food sensitivities. Enjoy the delicious flavors without worry! Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, I often recommend making your Apple Pie Cheesecake a day in advance. Chilling it overnight not only intensifies the flavors but also allows it to set perfectly. It’s a great time-saver for holiday gatherings or special occasions! Irresistible Apple Pie Cheesecake with Salted Caramel Bliss This Apple Pie Cheesecake marries creamy cheesecake with classic apple pie, topped with salted caramel—a perfect fall dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes minsChilling Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 9 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cheesecake1 cup Granulated White Sugar Consider using brown sugar for a richer taste.6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Salted butter can be used for extra flavor.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract is a unique twist.1 cup Sour Cream Plain yogurt is a great substitute.3 Eggs Vegan options: flax eggs or silken tofu.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Pumpkin pie spice can be used.1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg1/2 teaspoon AllspiceFor the Crust1 1/2 cups Graham Crackers Crushed digestive biscuits or Oreos can be used.For the Apple Topping3 cups Apples Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully.1/2 cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar can also be used.For the Caramel Drizzle1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your personal preference.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half makes a lighter sauce if preferred. Equipment mixing bowlFood Processorsaucepan9-inch springform panRoasting Pan Method PreparationIn a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir continuously until it melts into a rich, amber liquid—about 10 minutes. Gradually whisk in 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, followed by 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Remove from heat, cool for 10 minutes, and set aside.Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Wrap the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with aluminum foil, creating a seal. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan to prepare for baking.In a food processor, pulse 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until combined. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden, then let cool.In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, mixing well. Then, blend in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon each of nutmeg and allspice. Gently add 3 eggs, mixing until just combined.Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust. Place the pan in the preheated roasting pan and pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake for 1 hour until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let cool in the oven with the door ajar.After cooling, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.In a saucepan, add 3 cups of peeled and diced apples, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until apples are tender. Allow to cool completely before topping the cheesecake.In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt. Crumble until it resembles coarse crumbs. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden, stirring halfway through.Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake. Spoon the cooled apple mixture on top, followed by the streusel topping. Serve with additional caramel drizzle and cream cheese frosting if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Avoid overmixing to keep the cheesecake fluffy. Chilling overnight enhances flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
