Caramel Apple Cheesecake – Creamy, Spiced & Perfect for Fall

Few desserts feel as cozy and indulgent as cheesecake, but when you add cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery caramel sauce, you take it to an entirely new level. This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a dreamy dessert that blends the smooth richness of classic cheesecake with the sweetness of apples and the gooey goodness of caramel.

Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday tables, or whenever you want a show-stopping dessert, this cheesecake has layers of flavor that make every bite unforgettable.

🍏 Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ cup sour cream

For the Apple Topping:

• 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced thin

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

For Garnish:

• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Crust

   • Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

   • Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.

   • Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling

   • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

   • Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until just combined.

   • Pour over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

   • Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.

   • Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

   • Chill in the fridge at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Cook the Apples

   • In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

   • Cook until tender and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.

5. Assemble & Serve

   • Spoon warm apples over the chilled cheesecake.

   • Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.

   • Slice and serve with whipped cream if desired.

Tips for Success

• For a crack-free cheesecake, use a water bath or place a pan of hot water on the oven rack below.

• Use tart apples (like Granny Smith) for the best sweet-tangy balance.

• Always chill the cheesecake thoroughly before adding toppings.

Variations

• Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel drizzle.

• Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

• Spiced Crust: Swap graham crackers for gingersnaps for a holiday twist.

Why You’ll Love This Dessert

✔️ Combines the richness of cheesecake with cozy fall flavors
✔️ Elegant enough for holidays, easy enough for weekends
✔️ Sweet, spiced apples with gooey caramel in every bite