Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe

Introduction

If you love caramel apples, cheesecake, and pie, then this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie is your dream dessert. It combines creamy cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, and buttery graham cracker crust, all topped with a rich caramel drizzle. This pie is a showstopper for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a decadent and flavorful treat.

In this guide, we will break down step-by-step instructions, pro tips, ingredient substitutions, and storage recommendations to help you make the perfect Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie from scratch.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Servings

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup sour cream

For the Apple Pie Layer:

• 2 large apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until combined.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Pie Layer

1. In a bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
2. Evenly spread the apple mixture over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set.
2. Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring until melted and amber in color.
2. Add butter, stirring until fully melted.
3. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Allow to cool slightly before drizzling over the chilled pie.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

1. Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the pie.
2. Garnish with whipped cream or chopped nuts, if desired.
3. Slice and serve chilled.

Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie

✅ Use tart apples – Granny Smith apples provide the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
✅ Let the cheesecake cool completely – Chilling ensures the perfect creamy texture.
✅ Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter – Mix just until smooth to prevent cracking.
✅ Use homemade caramel sauce – Store-bought versions work, but homemade caramel adds the best flavor.
✅ Refrigerate overnight – This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Variations & Customizations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Nut-Free Version: Skip chopped nuts and ensure caramel is nut-free.
• Dairy-Free Substitute: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream, and vegan butter.
• Spiced Caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to the caramel sauce.
• Chocolate Twist: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the caramel for an extra decadent finish.

How to Store & Freeze

To Store:

• Keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Store caramel sauce separately and drizzle before serving.

To Freeze:

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes! This pie tastes even better when made a day in advance.

What’s the Best Way to Cut Clean Slices?

Use a hot knife, wiping it clean between slices.

Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel Sauce?

Absolutely! But homemade caramel gives the best flavor and texture.

How Do I Prevent Cheesecake Cracks?

Avoid overbaking and let it cool gradually before refrigerating.

Is This Pie Best Served Warm or Chilled?

Chilled is best, but let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie is a luxurious blend of creamy, spiced, and caramelized flavors, making it the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, a fall dinner party, or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

With its buttery crust, smooth cheesecake layer, and warm apple pie topping, this dessert offers the best of all worlds. Try this recipe today, and let us know how it turns out!

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