Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe

Treat your holiday gatherings to a delightful twist on classic flavors with this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake. This luscious dessert combines creamy cheesecake with spiced apple filling, all drizzled with rich salted caramel that perfectly balances sweetness and savory notes. Ideal for festive celebrations, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2025-11-26T11:59:02.879Z

This recipe is perfect for the holiday season.

The Perfect Holiday Dessert

When it comes to holiday feasts, the dessert table is often the crown jewel of the meal. This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake strikes the perfect balance between indulgent flavors and comforting nostalgia. The creamy cheesecake paired with the warmth of spiced apples creates a unique and satisfying experience that your guests won't forget. Whether served at Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dessert is sure to bring joy and delight with every bite.

The addition of salted caramel elevates this cheesecake to new heights, providing a sweet and slightly savory element that enhances the overall flavor profile. The combination of textures—from the smooth cheesecake to the crunchy apple filling—keeps things interesting, making for a dessert that feels both familiar and exciting. Every slice offers a new layer of flavor, making it a conversation starter at any gathering.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake turns out perfect, consider using room temperature ingredients. Softened cream cheese blends seamlessly into a creamy filling, while eggs that are at room temperature will incorporate more fully, creating a smoother texture. Take the time to mix your cheesecake batter well to eliminate any lumps for a velvety finish that your guests will love.

Don't rush the cooling process! Letting your cheesecake cool slowly to room temperature before refrigerating helps it set properly. This step is crucial for preventing cracks and ensuring a luscious mouthfeel. If your cheesecake does crack, no worries—cover it with a generous drizzle of salted caramel for a rustic and delicious solution. Your guests will focus on the rich flavors rather than the appearance.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option for busy holiday schedules. Prepare the cheesecake a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. The flavors only deepen and improve with time! When ready to enjoy, simply slice and drizzle with salted caramel just before serving to maintain the sweetness and offering a warm, inviting presentation.

For an extra touch, consider serving this cheesecake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of crushed nuts or a dusting of cinnamon can also add an appealing crunch and a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests. With this dessert, you can look forward to sweet seconds and happy hearts all around.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start.

For the Cheesecake

2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream

For the Apple Filling

2 cups apples, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Salted Caramel

1 cup sugar
6 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sea salt

Make sure to measure properly for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect cheesecake.

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time, then the vanilla and sour cream. Mix until combined.

Add the Apple Filling

In another bowl, mix the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Layer the apple filling over the cheesecake mixture.

Bake the Cheesecake

Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the center is set. Let it cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Salted Caramel

In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until it starts to caramelize. Add butter and then heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Mix in sea salt.

Serve

Drizzle salted caramel over the cooled cheesecake before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Why You'll Love Making This Cheesecake

Making this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake is not just about the incredible taste; it’s also about the fun and satisfaction of baking. The recipe guides you step by step, ensuring that even novice bakers can feel confident in the kitchen. Each phase, from preparing the crust to drizzling that luscious caramel, brings a sense of accomplishment that makes this dessert truly memorable.

This cheesecake represents a beautiful fusion of flavors and techniques. It combines the simplicity of a classic apple pie with the elegance of a cheesecake, making it versatile for any occasion. You can easily adapt this dessert for different seasons by changing the fruits used or by varying the spices in the apple filling, allowing you to enjoy it year-round.

Nutritional Considerations

While this dessert is certainly a treat, being mindful of portion sizes can help you enjoy it without guilt. The combination of protein from cream cheese and the natural sweetness of apples offers some nutritional benefits. Plus, if you want to make it a bit lighter, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and select lower-fat options for cream cheese. These small modifications can keep your cheesecake delicious yet a little healthier.

If you're looking for gluten-free alternatives, simply substitute traditional graham crackers with gluten-free options or even crushed nuts for the crust. Adapting recipes to meet dietary needs ensures that everyone at your gathering can indulge in the decadence of this salted caramel apple pie cheesecake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese as a substitute for a similar texture.