Indulge in the rich, autumn-inspired flavors of Dad's Caramel Apple Cheesecake—a dessert that’s as comforting as it is impressive. This decadent treat features a buttery graham cracker crust as the foundation for a luscious layer of creamy cheesecake filling. Topped with tender, cinnamon-spiced apple slices and a homemade salted caramel drizzle, each bite is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery perfection. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, this visually stunning cheesecake will leave everyone reaching for seconds. With its classic ingredients and elevated presentation, Dad's Caramel Apple Cheesecake brings the warm flavors of fall to your table in the most delicious way.
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter (6 tablespoons), and 2 tablespoons sugar until combined. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix well. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced apples, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons light brown sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until apples are softened but not mushy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Arrange the cooked apples on top of the cheesecake filling in an even layer. Bake the cheesecake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly ajar, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
While the cheesecake cools, make the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine 0.5 cup heavy cream, 0.75 cup light brown sugar, and 4 tablespoons butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, continuing to stir. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla and 0.25 teaspoon salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before using.
Once the cheesecake has chilled in the fridge for at least 4 hours, remove it from the springform pan. Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Slice and serve.
Calories |
7319 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 501.5 g | 643% | |
| Saturated Fat | 291.3 g | 1457% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1918 mg | 639% | |
| Sodium | 4363 mg | 190% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 674.9 g | 245% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.0 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 540.5 g | ||
| Protein | 84.9 g | 170% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.1 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 1366 mg | 105% | |
| Iron | 12.7 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 2035 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.