Caramel Apple Cheesecake (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - Graham cracker crumbs: 1 1/2 cups, finely crushed.
02 - Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, to sweeten the crust.
03 - Melted butter: 1/2 cup, to bind the crust.
04 - Cream cheese: 3 (8 oz) packages, softened, for a creamy filling.
05 - Granulated sugar: 1 cup, to sweeten the cheesecake.
06 - Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for flavor.
07 - Large eggs: 3, for structure and richness.
08 - Large apples: 2, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly, for a sweet and tangy topping.
09 - Caramel sauce: 1/2 cup (plus more for drizzling), for a sweet, sticky layer.
10 - Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon, for warm spice.
11 - Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, for added warmth.

Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
02 - In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup of sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
04 - Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust. Arrange half of the apple slices on top, drizzle with half of the caramel sauce, and sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apples, then top with the remaining apple slices. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top.
05 - Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
06 - Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top if desired.

Notes:

01 - This Caramel Apple Cheesecake combines creamy cheesecake with caramelized apple layers for a delicious dessert.
02 - For best results, allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for complete setting.
03 - The extra caramel drizzle adds a beautiful finish and enhances the flavor.