Caramel Apple Cheesecake (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs.
02 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted.
03 - ¼ cup granulated sugar.
04 - 3 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp).
05 - ¼ cup granulated sugar.
06 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
07 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
08 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening).
09 - 24 oz cream cheese, softened.
10 - 1 cup granulated sugar.
11 - 3 large eggs.
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
13 - 1 cup sour cream.
14 - 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade).

Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
02 - In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.
03 - In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.
04 - In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, then mix in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.
05 - Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Layer half of the apple filling on top.
06 - Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples, then top with the remaining apple mixture.
07 - Bake for 55-65 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
08 - Remove and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
09 - Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake. Slice and enjoy!.

Notes:

01 - This decadent caramel apple cheesecake features layers of creamy cheesecake and spiced apple filling, all topped with a rich caramel drizzle for the perfect autumn treat!.
02 - For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt over the caramel drizzle or garnish with toasted pecans.