Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Indulge in creamy Caramel Apple Cheesecake bites bursting with sweet apples and rich caramel—a perfect fall dessert combining the warmth of cinnamon, tangy cream cheese, and luscious caramel drizzle. These bite-sized treats offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures ideal for sharing or cozy nights.
- Author: Sophie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 24 bite-sized cheesecake pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free graham crackers)
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
Apple Filling
- 2 medium firm tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled and diced
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Cheesecake Batter
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping and Garnish
- ½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
- Optional: cinnamon powder for dusting
- Optional: thin apple slices for garnish
- Prepare the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl. Press evenly into the bottom of a baking pan or mini muffin tin to form a firm, flavorful base.
- Cook the Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Cheesecake Batter: Beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating until just combined, then mix in vanilla extract. Ensure the batter is silky and lump-free.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Bites: Spread the cooked apples evenly over the crust. Pour the cheesecake batter over the apples. Add spoonfuls of caramel sauce on top and use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl it through the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake and Cool: Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the centers are set but slightly jiggly. Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up and develop flavor.
- Serve with Extra Caramel: Before serving, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each cheesecake bite. Optionally garnish with chopped nuts, a dusting of cinnamon, or a thin apple slice for added presentation.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overmix the cheesecake batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture and prevent cracks.
- Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Chill cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal texture.
- Use high-quality caramel sauce—homemade or store-bought—for the richest taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (approx. 35g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: caramel apple cheesecake, fall dessert, bite-sized cheesecake, caramel drizzle, autumn dessert, cream cheese dessert