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Caramel Apple Cheesecake

If there is one dessert that makes me feel like wrapping up in a cozy blanket, sipping coffee, and savoring each bite, it is Caramel Apple Cheesecake. This dessert is the perfect marriage of creamy cheesecake, spiced apple topping, and a drizzle of golden caramel that ties it all together. It feels like autumn on a plate, yet it is so good you will want it all year round. Whether you are making it for a holiday table, a weekend treat, or simply because you deserve something sweet, this recipe brings pure joy with every forkful.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 7 hours
Servings 12 slices
Calories 435kcal

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs about 12 full sheets
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted

For the cheesecake filling

  • 3 packages 8 ounces each cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup heavy cream

Apple topping

  • 3 medium apples peeled, cored, and sliced thin (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water optional, for thickening

For the caramel drizzle

  • ½ cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce plus extra for serving

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar together. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to get it even and compact. Place in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in the vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream until combined. Do not overmix, as this can cause cracks later.
  • Pour the filling over the prepared crust. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with foil to prevent leaks, then place it in a larger baking pan. Pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake at 325°F for 60 to 65 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
  • Remove the cheesecake from the water bath, discard the foil, and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time helps the flavors deepen and the texture set perfectly.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring gently, until apples are tender but not mushy, about 6 to 8 minutes. If you prefer a thicker topping, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for 1 more minute. Let cool slightly before topping the cheesecake.
  • Spoon the cooled apple mixture over the chilled cheesecake. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce just before serving. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean slices.

Notes

Bring ingredients to room temperature
Softened cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream blend more easily and help create a smooth, lump-free filling.
Avoid overmixing
Too much mixing incorporates excess air, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake as it bakes.
Use a water bath
It might seem extra, but it keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents the edges from overbaking.
Let it chill completely
The cheesecake’s texture improves dramatically after several hours in the fridge, so resist cutting in too early.