Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake for Fall Desserts

Caramel Apple Cheesecake For Fall Desserts

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is everything cozy fall dreams are made of — creamy cheesecake, tender cinnamon apples, and a glossy caramel drizzle that makes each bite irresistible. It’s surprisingly simple to put together and perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any chilly evening when you need something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients

For the crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp melted butter

For the cheesecake layer:

  • 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs

For the apple topping:

  • 2 apples, peeled and diced (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work beautifully)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For finishing:

  • 1/3 cup caramel sauce, warmed
  • Optional: chopped pecans for crunch

Steps

  1. Make the crust. Mix graham crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until sandy. Press firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8 pan.
  2. Beat the cheesecake batter. Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
  3. Pour over the crust. Spread evenly don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; it settles as it bakes.
  4. Cook the apples. In a skillet, sauté diced apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for 3–4 minutes until softened and glossy.
  5. Top and bake. Spoon apples evenly over the cheesecake layer. Bake at 325°F for 35–40 minutes, until the center is mostly set with a slight jiggle.
  6. Cool completely. Chill for at least 2 hours so the layers firm up.
  7. Finish with caramel. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before slicing.

Chef’s Tips

  • Use softened cream cheese: It ensures a silky, lump-free cheesecake layer.
  • Don’t overbake: A slight jiggle in the center keeps the texture creamy, not dry.
  • Chill before cutting: It helps the bars slice cleanly and hold their beautiful layers.

Variations

  • Salted caramel twist: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top.
  • Apple crumble cheesecake: Sprinkle a quick oat crumble over the apples before baking.
  • Spiced version: Add 1/2 tsp apple pie spice to the cheesecake batter for extra warmth.