Indulge your taste buds with a slice of heaven: the Caramel Apple Pecan Cheesecake! This delectable dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of caramel, apples, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds! With just a little time and a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 90 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing the sides and bottom.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely moistened.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed measuring cup to compact the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy, using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans into the cheesecake batter, distributing them evenly.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set completely.
- Before serving, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the cheesecake.
- Slice and serve chilled, garnishing with additional chopped pecans if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination will enhance the overall taste of your cheesecake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy batter without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the apples and pecans, be gentle to avoid breaking them down too much. You want to keep some texture in the cheesecake.
- Check for Doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking your cheesecake around the 50-minute mark. It should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Chill for Best Results: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating. For the best flavor and texture, let it chill overnight before serving.
- Garnish Creatively: Before serving, get creative with your presentation! Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate your cheesecake’s visual appeal.
- Serve with Extra Caramel: For an extra indulgent treat, serve slices of cheesecake with additional caramel sauce drizzled on top. It adds a delightful sweetness that complements the flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 135mg
