Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake

Introduction

Did you know that combining flavors like apple, caramel, and cheesecake can elevate your dessert game? Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence, blending the comforting taste of a traditional apple pie with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This dessert not only satisfies sweet cravings but also makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at gatherings. Are you ready to dive into this delectable recipe that beautifully captures the essence of fall?

Ingredients List

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the cheesecake filling:

• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the apple pie filling:

• 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

For the salted caramel glaze:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp sea salt

Substitution Suggestions: You can use digestive biscuits for the crust or substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a different flavor profile.

Timing

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake takes approximately 90 minutes to prepare and bake, which is about 20% less time than a traditional pie. Here’s a breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.

2. Make the filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Add eggs one at a time, blending until just incorporated.

3. Create the apple pie filling

In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until evenly coated.

4. Layering the cheesecake

Pour half the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, followed by a layer of the apple pie filling, then the rest of the cheesecake filling on top. Bake for 60 minutes until the center is set but still jiggly. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring it to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content per slice (based on 12 slices):

• Calories: 400
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 30g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this cheesecake a bit healthier, consider the following swaps:

• Use a low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter filling.
• Substitute honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for the crust and filling.
• Opt for coconut oil instead of butter in the crust for a dairy-free option.

These modifications can enhance the nutritional benefits while still keeping the rich flavors intact!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake with a drizzle of warm salted caramel for added indulgence. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a complementary flavor burst. Garnish with fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate the presentation and flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not letting the cream cheese come to room temperature can lead to lumps in the filling. Always soften before mixing.
• Overbaking the cheesecake can result in cracks. Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; it should wiggle slightly but shouldn’t be liquid in the center.
• Skipping the chilling step may result in a gooey texture. Patience is key!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them in plastic wrap and foil, placing them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving!

Conclusion

This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings joy to any occasion. With easy steps and adaptations for various diets, there’s something for everyone. Try it out and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are a great choice for their tartness, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

What can I substitute for the heavy cream in the caramel sauce?

You can use coconut cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the salted caramel.

Can I omit the salted caramel glaze?

You can certainly skip the glaze if you prefer a lighter option or simply dust the cheesecake with powdered sugar instead!

Print

Sharing is caring!