Apple Cheesecake w/ Caramel Apple Topping

Let's create a delicious apple cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and caramel apple topping. We'll break it down into three components: the graham cracker crust, the apple-infused cheesecake, and the caramel apple topping.

Ingredients:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake:

• 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (e.g., Honeycrisp)

For the Caramel Apple Topping:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• 2 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (e.g., Honeycrisp)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: a. Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. b. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan to form the crust. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: a. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. b. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until smooth. c. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. d. Fold in the finely chopped fresh apples into the cream cheese mixture.

4. Layer the Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese and apple mixture over the graham cracker crust.

5. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until the center is almost set. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

6. Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping: a. In a saucepan, melt granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns into a smooth amber-colored liquid. b. Carefully add the butter and stir until fully melted and combined. c. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up. d. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. e. Add the thinly sliced fresh apples and ground cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and the sauce slightly thickens.

7. Serve: a. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer to a serving plate. b. Spoon the caramel apple topping over the cheesecake slices.

Enjoy your delicious apple cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and caramel apple topping!