Apple Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle Irresistible Recipe

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated apples (about 2 medium apples, peeled)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 0.5 cup brown sugar
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
• optional fresh apple slices
• optional whipped cream

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
3. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, grated apples, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
4. Assemble: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
5. Bake the cheesecake: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Turn off the oven and crack the door, letting the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
6. Prepare the caramel drizzle: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
7. Cool & chill: Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
8. Serve: When ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cheesecake and garnish with fresh apple slices and whipped cream, if desired.