Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Apple Topping:

• 2 large apples, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
   • Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Add the flour and mix until just combined.
   • Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed.
   • Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Make the Caramel Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture turns a deep amber color.
   • Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
   • Let the caramel cool to room temperature.
5. Prepare the Apple Topping:
   • Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon.
   • Arrange the apple slices on top of the chilled cheesecake.
6. Assemble the Cheesecake:
   • Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the apple-topped cheesecake.
   • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious caramel apple cheesecake!