Apple Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce
Ingredients:
– For the Crust:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– For the Cheesecake Filling
– 2 packages 8 ounces each cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– For the Apple Topping:
– 3 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– For the Caramel Sauce:
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons brandy optional, omit to remove alcohol
Directions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350F 175C. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
Bake the cheesecake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
4. Prepare the Apple Topping:
In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook the apples, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until tender and caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.
5. Make the Caramel Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, whisking until smooth. Let the mixture come to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and the brandy if using. Let the sauce cool slightly before serving.
6. Assemble the Cheesecake:
Before serving, spoon the cooked apples over the chilled cheesecake. Drizzle generously with the caramel sauce.
7. Serve:
Slice and enjoy the rich, creamy apple cheesecake with warm caramel sauce on top.
Nutritional Information:
– Prep Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 40 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus chilling time
– Kcal: 450 kcal per serving Servings: 8 servings
#AppleCheesecake #CaramelDessert #CheesecakeLovers #AppleSeason #FallBaking