Decadent Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup apple pie filling
- 1 apple, chopped (for garnish)
- Crumbled graham crackers (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Create the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, blend the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter until fully incorporated. Firmly press the mixture into the base of the prepared pan to create an even crust.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the ingredients are well combined.
- Layer and Bake: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust. Evenly distribute the apple pie filling over this layer, then drizzle with caramel sauce. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top, covering the apple layer completely.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges turn a light golden brown. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside to cool for an hour with the door slightly ajar.
- Cool and Chill: After the initial cooling period, remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with chopped apples, crumbled graham crackers, and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant finish.
Details:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including cooling and chilling)
- Calories: 480 kcal per slice
- Servings: 12 slices
This recipe delivers a rich and luxurious dessert, combining the tangy flavors of cheesecake with the sweetness of caramel and apples. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for a decadent treat!