Indulging in a slice of caramel apple cheesecake is like embracing the essence of autumn wrapped in creamy decadence. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the comforting, familiar tastes of baked apples and caramel, making it a perfect dessert for cozy family gatherings or festive celebrations. I’ve been making this cheesecake for years, and it never fails to impress friends and family alike. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a simple weeknight treat, this cheesecake is always a hit!

Why you’ll love this dish

There are many reasons to whip up this spectacular caramel apple cheesecake. First, it’s relatively easy to prepare—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking to impress. The combination of creamy cheesecake with tender, spiced apples and a luscious caramel sauce creates a fabulous dessert that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that makes any occasion feel special, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or simply enjoying a Sunday dinner at home.

"This caramel apple cheesecake is hands down the best dessert I’ve made! It’s creamy, rich, and the caramel sauce adds the perfect touch of sweetness. My family couldn’t get enough!" – Satisfied Baker

Step-by-step overview

Making this caramel apple cheesecake pulls together a few key steps that are straightforward and approachable. You’ll start by preparing the graham cracker crust, followed by whipping up the cheesecake filling and baking until perfectly set. Meanwhile, you’ll sauté apples in a buttery cinnamon mixture and whip up a quick caramel sauce. The final assembly is what makes this dessert truly stunning as you layer the warm apple topping over the chilled cheesecake and finish with a drizzle of homemade caramel.

What you’ll need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe will set you up for success. Here’s what you’ll require:

• For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

• For the Apple Topping:

  • 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

It’s important to use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling, and feel free to swap in your favorite apple variety based on availability or taste preferences.