Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Caramel Apple Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of rich, creamy cheesecake and the comforting flavors of caramel and apple. The velvety smooth cheesecake layer provides a luscious base, complemented by a generous swirl of caramel that adds a sweet, buttery undertone.
INGREDIENTS
For the base:
• 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers
• 5 tablespoons of melted butter
• ⅓ cup of sugar
For the filling:
• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, at room temperature
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the caramel sauce:
• 1 cup of brown sugar
• ½ cup of cream
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• A pinch of salt
PREPARATION
1. Prepare the base: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Take out of the oven and let it cool down.
2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with the sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla. Pour the mixture over the prepared base.
3. **Add the apples**: Mix the chopped apples with the cinnamon and nutmeg. Distribute them evenly over the cream cheese mixture.
4. Bake: Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Let cool in the pan on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
5. Prepare the caramel sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cream, butter and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for a few minutes, until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve: Before serving, unmold the cheesecake and pour the hot caramel sauce over it.
