Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie is the ultimate fusion of flavors and textures, combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake, the sweet and spiced apple filling, and the buttery crunch of pie crust. Drizzled with luscious caramel sauce, this dessert is perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or any occasion that calls for indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Layers: It’s a pie, cheesecake, and caramel apple dessert all in one!
- Perfect for Fall: The warm apple and cinnamon flavors make it a seasonal favorite.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A showstopper dessert that will impress guests at any event.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- Pre-made pie crust or graham cracker crust
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon for added flavor
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Egg
For the Apple Filling:
- Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Cornstarch
- Lemon juice
For the Topping:
- Caramel sauce
- Optional: whipped cream or chopped nuts for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F. If using a pie crust, press it into a 9-inch pie pan. If using a graham cracker crust, press the mixture firmly into the pan and bake for 5 minutes. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a bowl, toss apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Layer the apples over the cheesecake mixture.
- Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the apples are tender. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Add Caramel Topping: Drizzle the pie with caramel sauce before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve with whipped cream or a sprinkle of nuts if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Crust Options: Swap the pie crust for a gingerbread cookie crust or pecan crust for extra flavor.
- Spice Mix: Add cloves or allspice to the apple filling for a deeper spiced flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Salted Caramel: Use salted caramel sauce for a balance of sweet and savory.
- Mini Pies: Make individual portions using a muffin tin and reduce the baking time.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Serve cold or gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly, or you can make your own for a homemade touch.
What apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal due to their firmness and tartness.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake the pie a day in advance, then drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Do I need to pre-bake the crust?
For a firmer crust, pre-bake it for 5-10 minutes before adding the cheesecake layer.
Can I use a springform pan instead of a pie pan?
Yes, a springform pan works well and makes it easier to remove the pie for serving.
How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
Avoid over-mixing the cheesecake batter and let the pie cool gradually at room temperature.
Can I add nuts to the topping?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts make an excellent garnish alongside the caramel sauce.
Is this recipe adaptable for a no-bake version?
Yes, use a no-bake cheesecake filling and skip the baking step, but the apple layer will need to be cooked separately on the stovetop.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is set?
The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center but be firm around the edges.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or make two pies.
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie is a decadent dessert that beautifully combines the best of cheesecake, apple pie, and caramel flavors. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this pie is a slice of pure happiness. Enjoy!
PrintCaramel Apple Cheesecake Pie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie combines a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, spiced caramelized apples, and a rich caramel drizzle. It’s the ultimate fall dessert that’s sure to impress at gatherings or satisfy any sweet craving.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Prepare the Apple Layer:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but not mushy.
- Arrange the cooked apple slices evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Bake the Pie:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set. Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
Add the Topping:
- Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the pie before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the caramel sauce just before serving.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the caramel for added crunch.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.