Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns into a deep amber caramel.
- Remove from heat and carefully whisk in butter until melted.
- Slowly pour in warmed heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Stir in salt. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overbeat.
- Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Top with the apple pie filling, spreading it evenly.
- Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples.
- Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- Place the pan in a larger roasting pan.
- Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan (creating a water bath).
- Bake in preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let cool completely at room temperature.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Before serving, drizzle with salted caramel sauce. You can also try adding a sprinkle of sea salt or some chopped pecans.
Notes
Pre-baking the crust prevents a soggy bottom. Pre-cooking the apples concentrates their flavor and reduces moisture. Patience and precise measurements are key for the salted caramel. A water bath ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Chilling thoroughly allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set properly. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
