Name: Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 6 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 3 medium apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced; ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for apple filling); ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar (for cheesecake batter); 1 cup sour cream, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; ½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)

If you’re like me and find yourself torn between the cozy richness of a cheesecake and the warm, spiced sweetness of a classic apple pie—this Caramel Apple Cheesecake is the dreamy middle ground. It’s indulgent, decadent, and layered with flavor. Imagine a crunchy graham cracker crust, a soft spiced apple filling, a creamy cheesecake center, and finally, a thick drizzle of buttery caramel sauce that cascades over every bite. Yes, it’s as good as it sounds.

I made this dessert last fall for a family dinner, and not a single crumb was left behind. The layers not only look stunning when sliced but offer a beautiful balance of texture and flavor. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, a dinner party, or just craving something special for the weekend—this recipe brings bakery-quality results right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake

This cheesecake isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. The cinnamon-kissed apple layer gives it the nostalgic feel of apple pie, while the creamy cheesecake and sweet caramel sauce elevate it to gourmet status. It’s perfect for fall but honestly irresistible any time of the year. Plus, it’s a real crowd-pleaser and always gets those “Wow!” reactions.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

I prefer using a mix of tart and sweet apples for balance. Granny Smith apples give that signature tartness and hold up beautifully during baking, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add a natural sweetness and juicy texture. Peel and thinly slice them so they melt seamlessly into the apple filling layer.

Options for Substitutions

Crust: No graham crackers? Try crushed gingersnaps or vanilla wafers for a twist.
Apples: Use pears if you’re feeling adventurous, or stick with all sweet apples if tartness isn’t your thing.
Caramel Sauce: Homemade is best, but store-bought caramel will save time and still taste amazing.
Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s full-fat for the richest flavor—low-fat versions just won’t give the same creaminess.

Ingredients for This Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Graham cracker crumbs – The base of the crust, giving it a sweet, buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
Unsalted butter – Helps bind the crust and adds rich flavor.
Granulated sugar – Used throughout the crust, apple layer, and cheesecake to sweeten and balance flavors.
Cinnamon & nutmeg – These warm spices bring out the autumnal flavor in the apples and add depth to every bite.
Apples (Granny Smith & Honeycrisp) – The stars of the apple layer, providing tartness, sweetness, and structure.
Cornstarch – Thickens the apple filling, giving it that pie-like texture.
Cream cheese – The main component of the cheesecake layer, creamy and tangy.
Sour cream – Adds smoothness and a bit of tang, softening the richness of the cream cheese.
Eggs – Essential for binding the cheesecake and giving it a silky texture.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
Caramel sauce – A decadent finishing touch that ties the layers together with sweet, buttery richness.

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly. In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Stir frequently until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens. Let it cool slightly, then spread it evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Blend the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Pour the mixture over the apple layer and smooth the top.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let it cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 5: Chill Completely

Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the layers set completely and improves texture.

Step 6: Add Caramel and Serve

Once chilled, drizzle generous amounts of caramel sauce over the cheesecake. Top with thin apple slices and a sprinkle of brown sugar crumble for extra flair. Slice and serve cold.

How Long to Prepare the Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Preparation Time: The hands-on preparation takes about 45 minutes. This includes making the crust, cooking the apple filling, blending the cheesecake batter, and assembling the layers. It’s not overly complicated, but each component deserves attention to get that bakery-perfect finish.

Baking & Cooling Time: The cheesecake bakes for about 60–70 minutes, followed by 1 hour of resting in the oven and at least 4 hours (or overnight) chilling in the fridge. This makes it an ideal make-ahead dessert that sets beautifully with time.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for the smoothest batter.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks.
Use a Water Bath: It keeps the baking environment moist and ensures even baking without surface cracks.
Cool Gradually: Sudden temperature changes can cause the cheesecake to sink or crack.
Chill Overnight: The flavor deepens and texture improves the longer it chills—worth the wait!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Water Bath: This leads to uneven baking and surface cracking.
Using Cold Cream Cheese: This creates lumps in the batter and uneven texture.
Not Cooking the Apple Filling Enough: Undercooked apples will stay firm and may leak moisture into the cheesecake layer.
Overbaking: A dry or crumbly cheesecake happens when it’s baked too long—look for a slight jiggle in the center.
Adding Caramel While Warm: Always wait until the cheesecake is fully chilled before drizzling caramel, or it will melt into the surface.

What to Serve With Caramel Apple Cheesecake?

1. Fresh Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream balances the richness of the cheesecake.

2. Spiced Apple Cider

Serve warm or chilled alongside for cozy fall vibes.

3. Salted Pecans or Candied Walnuts

Add crunch and a bit of salt to balance the sweetness.

4. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Perfect for making each bite even more indulgent.

5. Coffee or Espresso

A strong coffee or shot of espresso contrasts wonderfully with the sweet layers.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use a cake dome or wrap the pan in plastic wrap for best freshness.

Freezing: This cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Caramel Tip: If freezing, wait to add the caramel sauce until just before serving to maintain the best texture and look.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice, based on 12 servings)

Calories: 480–520
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Sugar: 36g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 300mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?

The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight wobble. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes better the next day after chilling overnight. You can make it up to 2 days in advance.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely. While homemade caramel gives a richer flavor, store-bought works perfectly for convenience.

What can I use instead of a water bath?

Place a pan of hot water on the rack beneath the cheesecake. It won’t be as effective, but it adds moisture to the oven.

Why did my cheesecake crack on top?

Cracks happen from overmixing, overbaking, or sudden temperature changes. Luckily, caramel drizzle can cover any imperfections!

Conclusion

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake blends everything I love about dessert: creamy textures, spiced apples, and rich caramel. It’s comforting, decadent, and a showstopper on any dessert table. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special celebration, or simply to treat yourself, this cheesecake will impress. Take your time with each layer, let it chill properly, and you’ll be rewarded with one unforgettable dessert.