1. Prepare the Crust:
1.1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick spray.
1.2. Make the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
1.3. Press the Crust:
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to help pack it down.
1.4. Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
2.1. Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2.2. Add Sugar and Eggs:
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2.3. Add Vanilla, Sour Cream, and Heavy Cream:
- Beat in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2.4. Pour the Filling:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
3.1. Prepare a Water Bath:
- To prevent cracks, wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking pan. Pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
3.2. Bake:
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
3.3. Cool the Cheesecake:
- Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Afterward, remove it from the water bath, run a knife around the edge to loosen it, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping:
4.1. Caramelize the Apples:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
4.2. Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. Make the Caramel Sauce:
5.1. Cook the Sugar:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to cook until it turns a deep amber color.
5.2. Add Cream and Butter:
- Carefully add the heavy cream (the mixture will bubble up) and whisk until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
5.3. Cool the Caramel Sauce:
- Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before using it.
6. Assemble the Caramel Apple Cheesecake:
6.1. Top with Apples:
- Once the cheesecake has fully cooled and set, remove it from the springform pan. Arrange the caramelized apple slices on top of the cheesecake in an even layer.
6.2. Drizzle with Caramel:
- Drizzle the homemade caramel sauce generously over the apples.
6.3. Serve:
- Slice the cheesecake and serve it chilled or at room temperature. For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Cheesecake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients (especially cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream) are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
- Water Bath: Using a water bath while baking helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking and keeps it moist.
- Apple Variety: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweet caramel and cheesecake filling.
- Caramel Sauce: Store any leftover caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It’s great for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, or other desserts.
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that brings together the best of fall flavors in one luxurious bite. The combination of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and rich caramel sauce is simply irresistible, making it a perfect choice for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re in the mood for something truly indulgent. Enjoy!