If there’s one dessert that captures the cozy spirit of fall and the indulgent charm of a holiday table, it’s this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. Think creamy cheesecake, spiced apple pie filling, and golden caramel drizzled over a buttery crust. It’s everything comforting, all wrapped into one luscious slice.
Hi, I’m Saly. I’m a home cook and a wife who’s learned that fewer steps in the kitchen don’t have to mean less flavor. When I made this dessert for my husband, his eyes lit up after the first bite. That’s when I knew it was a keeper. Now it’s become a family favorite and a frequent request.
Let’s dig into what makes this dessert so unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake
If you’re a fan of mash-ups like Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes, this one’s going to become your go-to. The magic of this cheesecake lies in its perfect layers; a cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust, silky cheesecake, and a layer of tender apples baked right in.
What sets it apart from the usual cheesecake? That swirl of salted caramel on top. It balances the sweetness and enhances the rich, creamy base. The apple pie cheesecake combo gives you all the fall flavors with the elegance of a classic dessert.
It’s freezer-friendly, make-ahead approved, and even better the next day. Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving or just because apples are in season, this recipe brings comfort and “wow” to any occasion.
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Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
A luscious cheesecake layered with warm spiced apples and finished with homemade salted caramel; perfect for fall and festive gatherings.
- Total Time: 8 hours
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
FOR CRUST:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
6 tbsp melted butter
FOR FILLING:
24 oz cream cheese (softened)
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 eggs
APPLE PIE TOPPING:
2 large apples (peeled, diced)
2 tbsp butter
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp cornstarch
SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE:
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp butter
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a springform pan.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into pan. Bake for 10 mins. Cool.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla. Beat in eggs.
4. Pour filling over cooled crust.
5. Cook apples with butter, sugar, and spices until soft. Stir in cornstarch to thicken.
6. Spoon apple mixture over filling. Bake 55–65 mins until center is set.
7. Cool, then chill overnight.
8. Make caramel by melting sugar to amber, then whisk in butter and cream. Stir in salt.
9. Drizzle over chilled cheesecake before serving.
Notes
Let the cheesecake chill at least 6 hours (overnight is best).
Use a water bath to prevent cracking.
Caramel can be made ahead and stored for 2 weeks in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Ingredients for Apple Pie Cheesecake with Salted Caramel
Everything in this cheesecake serves a flavorful purpose. The layers are easy to prep and even easier to enjoy.
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
For the cheesecake filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
For the apple pie topping:
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the salted caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Want an easier version for weeknights? Check out Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars; all the flavor, no springform pan needed!
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake
This recipe has a few steps, but don’t worry. Each part is simple, and the result is absolutely worth it.
- 1. Prep the crust:
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Press into a greased springform pan. Bake at 325°F for 10 minutes. Let cool. - 2. Make the filling:
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, vanilla, then mix in eggs one at a time. Pour over crust. - 3. Cook the apple topping:
In a skillet, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and spices. Cook until softened. Stir in cornstarch to thicken. Let cool slightly. - 4. Layer and bake:
Spoon apple mixture over cheesecake batter. Bake at 325°F for 55–65 minutes, until center is set. Cool completely, then chill overnight. - 5. Make the salted caramel:
In a saucepan, melt sugar until amber. Add butter, whisk until smooth. Slowly add cream and salt. Let cool before drizzling over cheesecake.
Serve chilled with extra caramel on the side, and for a cozy twist, pair it with Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake at your next fall gathering.
Tips and Delicious Variations
Tips for best results:
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Wrap your springform pan with foil to prevent water bath leaks.
- Chill overnight, it really sets the flavor and texture.
Try these variations:
- Crust switch: Use crushed gingersnaps for a spicy kick.
- Boozy boost: Add a splash of bourbon to the caramel for depth.
- Mini version: Turn these into cupcake-sized cheesecakes.
And if you love rich, fruity desserts with a crumble topping, don’t miss the Apple Crumble Cheesecake, another fall winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned apple pie filling?
Yes, but homemade gives the best texture and spice control. If using canned, reduce added sugar slightly.
How long does this cheesecake last?
Up to 5 days refrigerated. Wrap tightly to prevent drying out. It also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.
Do I need a water bath?
Yes, it helps prevent cracks and keeps the cheesecake ultra-creamy. Use hot water and wrap your pan in foil for protection.
Can I make it ahead for the holidays?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is even better after a day in the fridge. Prep it 1–2 days in advance for stress-free serving.
Final Thoughts: A Slice of Fall Heaven
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake isn’t just a dessert, it’s an experience. Warm apples, creamy layers, and rich caramel come together in a slice that’s both comforting and luxurious. Whether you’re baking it for a special dinner or just chasing those autumn vibes, this dessert never disappoints.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, don’t hesitate to join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
