# Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza
Fall in love with the delectable harmony of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and velvety caramel in our Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza. Ideal way to elevate your cozy nights with this melt-in-mouth dessert!
**Servings**: 12 slices
**Prep Time**: 30 minutes
**Bake Time**: 1 hour
**Total Time**: 4 hours (includes cooling and chilling)
## Why Make This Recipe
Everyone loves a good cheesecake, but when the creamy sweetness of cheesecake is combined with caramel and apple, it turns into an extravagant dessert adventure that your taste buds will love.
## How to Make Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza
### Ingredients:
**For Crust:**
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
**For Cheesecake Filling:**
– 24 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup sour cream
**For Caramel Apple Topping:**
– 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– 1 cup store-bought caramel sauce
### Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Using a spray, grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl then press into the bottom of the prepped pan. Bake for 10 minutes and allow it to cool.
3. Beat together the cream cheese and sugar until it gains a smooth texture. Blend in one egg at a time and the vanilla. Stir in sour cream.
4. Pour the prepared filling over the cooled crust. Bake it for 50 minutes to an hour. The center should be firm but a slight jiggle is fine.
5. Once baked, allow it to cool in the oven for an hour and then transfer it to the fridge for no less than 2 hours.
6. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices alongside brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook these until the apples get tender. This should take around 10 minutes.
7. Ready to serve? Perfect! Arrange the apple slices on your chilled cheesecake and drizzle with caramel sauce. Slice it up and enjoy the heartiness!
## How to Serve Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza
This rich and creamy Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza can be served chilled with a dash of whipped cream or extra caramel sauce on top. Do not forget some crunchy apple slices for added texture!
## How to Store Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza
Refrigerating is your best bet when it comes to storing this delectable dessert. Make sure the cheesecake is covered tightly with a foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. It can last upto 5 days in the refrigerator.
## Tips to Make Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza
1. Always use room temperature cream cheese for the cheesecake filling. This ensures a lump-free and smoother texture.
2. To prevent cracks on the surface, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven first before refrigerating.
## FAQs
**1. Can I use other types of cracker crumbs for the crust?**
Yes, you can use digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies as an alternative.
**2. What type of apples are best for the topping?**
Choose firm and tart apples such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious as they hold up well when cooked.
**3. Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?**
Yes. A gluten-free version can be made by using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Savour and enjoy each bite as this dessert assures a caramel apple cheesecake adventure like never before!