Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (24 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   • Cook until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
   • Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and beat until well combined.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract and salt.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Fold in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
   • Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
   • Spoon the caramelized apple filling evenly over the batter.
   • Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apple filling, spreading it evenly.
   • Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
   • Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the granulated sugar and water.
   • Cook, without stirring, until the sugar has dissolved and turned a deep amber color.
   • Carefully whisk in the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
   • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter.
   • Pour the caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake.
   • Optionally, garnish with additional apple pieces or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
   • Slice and enjoy your decadent caramel apple cheesecake!

Enjoy your delicious and indulgent caramel apple cheesecake!