- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Make the Crust:
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
- Press the mixture firmly onto the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential leaks. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
- Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping:
- While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the caramel apple topping.
- In a skillet, heat the caramel sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
- Add the thinly sliced apples and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and coated with caramel.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Finish the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve:
- Just before serving, arrange the caramel-coated apple slices on top of the chilled cheesecake.
- Optionally, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples for added crunch and flavor.
- Enjoy:
- Slice and serve the luxurious caramel apple cheesecake chilled. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over each slice if desired.
Tips:
- Storage: Store leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Variations: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel apple topping for a spiced flavor.
- Presentation: For an elegant touch, dust the cheesecake with powdered sugar before serving.
This luxurious caramel apple cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or as a decadent dessert that will impress your guests with its creamy texture and delicious caramel apple topping. Enjoy every bite!