Caramel Apple Crisp Cheesecake (Rich, Creamy & Fall Favorite)

Introduction

Caramel Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves warm, cozy fall flavors wrapped into one luxurious treat. This show-stopping cheesecake layers a buttery crust, rich and creamy cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a golden oat crisp topping—all finished with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy textures.

What makes this dessert truly special is how it blends three classic favorites into one unforgettable cake. You get the smooth richness of cheesecake, the comforting flavors of apple crisp, and the indulgent sweetness of caramel apples—all in a single slice. It’s the kind of dessert that feels bakery-quality, yet can be made right at home with a little patience and simple ingredients.

Caramel Apple Crisp Cheesecake is ideal for fall gatherings, holidays, Thanksgiving, special occasions, or anytime you want a dessert that truly impresses. While it looks elaborate, each layer is straightforward to prepare, and the result is well worth the effort. This cheesecake also slices beautifully and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead entertaining.

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall and delivers maximum flavor and comfort, this cheesecake is an absolute must-bake.

Ingredients
Crust

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling

24 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple Layer

3 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced

⅓ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Crisp Topping

¾ cup old-fashioned oats

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup brown sugar

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Topping

Caramel sauce, for drizzling

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until creamy. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer

In a bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside to allow flavors to blend.

Step 4: Make the Crisp Topping

In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Spoon apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle crisp topping generously over the apples. Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the center is just slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight.

Variations

Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Add flaky sea salt to the caramel drizzle.

Apple Pie Cheesecake: Skip the oats and use a streusel topping.

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers and flour.

Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

Pear Crisp Cheesecake: Substitute pears for apples for a softer fruit layer.

Cooking Notes

Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.

Avoid overmixing once eggs are added to prevent cracking.

Baking low and slow ensures a creamy texture.

Cooling gradually helps prevent surface cracks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Caramel Apple Crisp Cheesecake chilled or slightly warmed with extra caramel sauce drizzled on top. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a hot cup of coffee. This cheesecake is perfect for fall dinners, holiday dessert tables, and special celebrations.

Tips

Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.

Line the springform pan with parchment for easier removal.

Chill overnight for clean, perfect slices.

Wipe knife between cuts for bakery-style presentation.

Prep Time

35 minutes

Cooking Time

70 minutes

Total Time

5 hours 45 minutes (including cooling and chilling)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 520

Protein: 7g

Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

Can I make Caramel Apple Crisp Cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

What apples work best?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape best.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, freeze without caramel topping for up to 2 months.

Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overmixing or rapid temperature changes can cause cracking.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a rich, comforting dessert that captures everything we love about fall baking. With creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, crunchy oat topping, and luscious caramel, this dessert delivers unforgettable flavor and texture in every slice. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that looks impressive and tastes even better—one bite is all it takes to fall in love.

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