Name: Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 340 min
Ingredients: 1 lb peeled, cored and sliced apples ((from about 4 apples)); 3 tablespoon packed light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs ((from about 24 squares)); 2 tablespoon packed light brown sugar; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 5 tablespoon unsalted butter ((melted and cooled)); ⅔ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup quick oats; ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt; ⅓ cup unsalted butter ((melted)); 24 oz brick cream cheese ((softened)); ¾ cup packed light brown sugar; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 3 large eggs ((at room temperature)); ⅓ cup full fat sour cream; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Introduction to Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Why this cheesecake is a must-try for homemade food lovers

If you're a fan of homemade desserts that steal the show, then the Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake is your new best friend. This cheesecake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings the warmth of fall right to your table with every creamy, decadent bite.

Imagine a rich brown sugar cheesecake with cinnamon-spiced apples baked into it, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with a mouthwatering crumble and a generous drizzle of salted caramel. It's truly the ultimate treat to impress your friends or family during the holiday season.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s the seamless blend of flavors and textures: the creamy filling, the tender apples, and that delightful crunch from the crumble topping. You're not just making any cheesecake; you're creating a masterpiece meant for gatherings and celebrations. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to put together.

Ready to dive in? Let's unleash your inner home chef and create a show-stopping dessert that everyone will remember!

For more delightful cheesecake inspiration, explore sources like BBC Good Food and Epicurious for expert tips and variations!

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Creating a Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake is an absolute delight, and starting with the right ingredients makes all the difference! Here’s a complete list to easily guide you through your shopping and preparation.

Complete list of ingredients

Apple filling:

1 lb (454g) peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 4 apples)
3 tablespoons (45g) packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Crust:

1 ½ cups (160g) graham cracker crumbs (about 24 squares)
2 tablespoons (30g) packed light brown sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

Crumb topping:

⅔ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (50g) quick oats
⅓ cup (70g) packed light brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake filling:

24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup (165g) packed light brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 large eggs, at room temperature
⅓ cup (80ml) full-fat sour cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon (8g) all-purpose flour

These ingredients come together to create a cheesecake that’s not just rich and creamy, but also packed with that perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Ready to make something unforgettable? Let's dive into the preparation next!

Preparing Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Creating a Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake is not just about following a recipe; it's about crafting a delicious centerpiece that your guests will rave about. Let’s walk through the preparation process step-by-step!

Make the Apple Filling

Start by preparing the luscious apple filling that will elevate your cheesecake. Take about 1 pound of peeled, cored, and sliced apples (which is roughly 4 medium apples) and toss them with 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg in a large skillet. Cook these additions over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the apples are soft but still hold their shape. Once done, set them aside to cool completely. This filling will add that perfect autumnal flavor to your cheesecake, making it irresistibly delicious!

Prepare the Crust

While your apples are cooling, it’s time to prepare the crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch round springform pan with parchment paper. In a food processor, pulse 1.5 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon until they resemble a fine mixture. Drizzle in 5 tablespoons of melted butter and pulse until everything is combined. Transfer this crumb mixture into your prepared pan, pressing it evenly over the base and up the sides using a drinking glass for a neat finish. Bake for 8 minutes until lightly golden.

Create the Crumb Topping

Next, let’s whip up that delightful crumb topping! In a medium bowl, mix together ⅔ cup of flour, ½ cup of quick oats, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and a touch of nutmeg. Once blended, stir in ⅓ cup of melted butter until you achieve a mixture of large crumbs. Set this aside while you get to the cheesecake filling!

Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

For the creamy filling, beat 24 ounces of softened cream cheese in a large bowl using an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually mix in ¾ cup of brown sugar and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon until it’s completely combined. Add 3 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring you mix well after each addition. Finish with ⅓ cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure no lumps remain.

Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Pour two-thirds of your cheesecake filling into the crust, smoothing it out. Gently layer half of the apple filling on top, followed by dollops of the remaining cheesecake filling. Finally, scatter the rest of the apples and cover with the crumb topping, piling it high for that perfect crumble finish. Bake at 325°F for about 45 minutes, ensuring to create a gentle steam by placing a dish of hot water in the oven. This will keep your cheesecake moist and prevent cracking.

After baking, let the cheesecake cool and transfer it to the fridge for at least four hours. When you’re ready to serve, unleash that salted caramel sauce for that extra touch!

Embrace the process, and soon enough, you’ll have a stunning Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!

Variations on Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Add Some Nuts for Crunch

Want to elevate your Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake to the next level? Adding nuts can provide that perfect crunch! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even almonds mixed into the crumble topping or sprinkled throughout the apple filling can create a delightful texture contrast. Just be sure to toast the nuts lightly before adding them for an even richer flavor.

Experiment with Different Fruits

While apples are classic, don’t hesitate to explore other fruits! Pears, for instance, pair beautifully with the caramel and spices. You can also experiment with berries or stone fruits like peaches, adding a fresh twist to your cheesecake. Just remember to adjust the sugar levels depending on the fruit’s natural sweetness. This flexibility ensures your Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake can be both seasonal and unique, catering to different palates and occasions.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Avoiding Cheesecake Cracks

To achieve a perfectly smooth Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake, it's crucial to avoid cracks—a common issue when baking cheesecakes. Use room temperature ingredients, especially cream cheese, to create a consistent batter. Be gentle when mixing; over-beating incorporates too much air, leading to cracks during baking. Lastly, create a steam bath by placing a pan of water in the oven, which helps maintain moisture and promotes even baking.

Tips for Making the Crumble Topping

For a delightful crumble topping, ensure your butter is just melted, as overly hot butter can make your mixture too greasy. Combine dry ingredients thoroughly before adding butter to avoid clumps of sugar. Using your fingers to mix everything together allows you to create those lovely, big crumbs that will turn golden brown and crunchy. If you need more texture or flavor, consider adding nuts or spices to the crumble for an extra layer of autumn-inspired deliciousness!

For more tips on making delicious cheesecakes, check out AllRecipes for valuable insights!

Serving Suggestions for Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Pair with scoops of ice cream

Elevate your Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake experience by serving it alongside generous scoops of your favorite ice cream. Vanilla or caramel ice cream wonderfully complements the rich flavors of the cheesecake, adding a creamy contrast that’s downright irresistible. Picture this: a warm slice of cheesecake paired with a melting scoop of ice cream, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes!

Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over your slice of Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake. This simple addition takes the dessert to the next level, enhancing the sweet, buttery flavors while adding a beautiful visual appeal. Don’t be shy—go ahead and add a little extra on the plate for that irresistible presentation. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a masterpiece!

Time Breakdown for Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Prep time
Get things rolling with just 25 minutes of prep. This includes slicing apples, making the crust, and mixing your cheesecake filling. You’ll want to gather your ingredients and tools first—trust me, it makes the whole process smoother!

Cook time
Prepare to indulge! The bake time clock is set for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Don’t forget to let that heavenly, caramelized aroma fill your kitchen. The bake ensures that all those flavors meld beautifully.

Chill time
Patience is a virtue in cheesecake making! After baking, the cheesecake needs to chill for at least 4 hours. This allows it to set perfectly, resulting in that ultra-creamy texture that everyone loves.

By organizing your time effectively, you ensure a delightful experience from start to finish! Interested in cheesecake tips? Check out this guide on how to perfect your cheesecake for more insights!

Nutritional Facts for Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Calories

Each slice of Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake has approximately 400 calories, making it a deliciously indulgent treat.

Protein

You can expect about 6 grams of protein per slice, thanks to the rich cream cheese and eggs in this delightful dessert.

Carbohydrates

This dessert packs around 50 grams of carbohydrates per slice, with the sweetness coming from apples, brown sugar, and the buttery crumble topping.

Looking to learn more about the nutritional aspects of ingredients? Check out Healthline for expert insights and tips!

FAQs about Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! While the traditional recipe calls for full-fat cream cheese to achieve that rich and creamy texture, you can substitute with low-fat cream cheese. Keep in mind that the cheesecake may not be as rich, but it will still taste delicious—perfect for a lighter version!

How can I store leftovers?
To keep your Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Definitely! To freeze, slice the cheesecake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and enjoy your delectable treat once more!

For additional tips, check out resources from The Cheesecake Factory on cheesecake storage and more.

Conclusion on Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Final thoughts and encouragement to try it!

This Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it's an experience! Whether you're hosting a dinner party or indulging yourself, this cheesecake will impress with its layers of flavor and texture. Don't hesitate—give it a try! You might just find it becomes your new favorite fall treat. Happy baking!