If you are on the hunt for a dessert that brings together the warm flavors of autumn with a decadent twist, then you have to try this incredible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe. This dessert layers moist apple cake with creamy cheesecake and finishes it off with a luscious homemade caramel sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor explosion. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a full-on celebration of textures and tastes that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this show-stopping Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple but essential—the kind that come together beautifully to build layers of flavor, moisture, and richness. Every component plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance between sweet, tart, and creamy.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender and fluffy apple cake base.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warm spice notes that complement the apples perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture to the cake batter.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients and contributes to structure and tenderness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to balance sweetness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and light.
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith): Tart apples add freshness and texture to every bite.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer—smooth and indulgent.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer evenly without graininess.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the creamy cheesecake flavor.
- 1 egg: Helps set the cheesecake layer with a silky finish.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel): Transforms into rich, golden caramel.
- 6 tbsp butter (for caramel): Creates a velvety texture and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce smooth and luscious.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for caramel): Adds a final fragrant touch to the sauce.
- Pinch of salt (for caramel): Balances sweetness and intensifies the caramel flavor.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cake Batter
Start by whisking together the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt—in a medium bowl. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is key to a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain that airy texture, then stir in the vanilla extract for warmth.
Step 2: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Alternate mixing the dry ingredients with the sour cream and milk into the butter mixture. This process keeps your batter smooth and ensures the cake will stay moist. Finally, fold in the chopped apples—they add bursts of freshness and a slight tartness that keep every bite exciting.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the prepared batter evenly between two greased cake pans. Pop them into a preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, let the cakes cool completely; this is crucial before adding the cheesecake layer, so everything sets perfectly without melting together.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, lump-free mixture. Add the egg and mix gently until everything is just combined. This silky cheesecake batter will become the luscious middle layer of your cake.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate, then evenly spread the cheesecake mixture over the top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to sandwich everything together without squishing the layers sideways.
Step 6: Make the Caramel Sauce
Here’s where magic happens. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar while stirring constantly—this requires your full attention to achieve that perfect golden brown color without burning. Once caramelized, add butter, stirring until melted, then carefully pour in the heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer briefly until it thickens, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly before drizzling.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A drizzle of that homemade caramel sauce over the top is a must, of course! For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel for crunch, or add a dusting of cinnamon powder to tie all the flavors together beautifully. Fresh apple slices on the side can also enhance the presentation and apple flavor.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich cheesecake layer. A hot cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee also balances the dessert’s sweetness perfectly, making it a delightful finale for a cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve individual slices in clear glass dessert plates or small trifle bowls layered with extra caramel sauce. Alternatively, top each slice with caramel popcorn or homemade apple chips for an added creative twist that everyone will admire.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once baked and assembled, this cake is best stored in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container to keep it fresh while preserving that creamy cheesecake layer and moist cake texture. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake to enjoy later. Wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Keep in mind the caramel sauce is best added fresh after thawing to keep its silky texture intact.
Reheating
If you’d like to serve your cake slightly warm, simply let it come to room temperature first. You can also warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating as the cheesecake layer can separate and the cake may dry out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness, but you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples depending on your sweetness preference. Just make sure to peel and chop them evenly for consistent texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to mimic the texture of regular flour and achieve a similar crumb.
Can I prepare the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The caramel sauce can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving to bring back that perfect pourable consistency.
What is the best way to prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
To avoid cracks, do not overmix the cheesecake batter and bake on the middle rack of your oven at a consistent temperature. Also, avoid sudden temperature changes by allowing the cake to cool gradually before assembling.
Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and bake in larger or multiple pans, adjusting baking time as needed. Just keep an eye on the cake by testing with a toothpick to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe is a keeper, offering that perfect blend of cozy and indulgent all in one dessert. Once you try it, its layers of soft apple cake, silky cheesecake, and rich caramel will surely win your heart and your taste buds. I can’t wait for you to bake it and make new sweet memories with every bite!
Print
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake combines a moist apple spice cake layered with a creamy cheesecake filling and topped with a rich homemade caramel sauce. Perfect for autumn or any time you crave a decadent fruity dessert with a luscious caramel finish.
Ingredients
Apple Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith)
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Make the Apple Cake: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which creates a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients alternately with the sour cream and milk, mixing carefully to maintain a smooth batter without overmixing. Fold in the chopped apples for bursts of fruitiness.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between prepared cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before proceeding.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Egg to Cheesecake Mixture: Incorporate the egg into the cream cheese mixture and mix until fully combined, ensuring a silky texture.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over one of the cooled apple cake layers. Gently place the second cake layer on top and press lightly to sandwich the cheesecake layer evenly.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until it turns a golden brown caramel color.
- Add Butter and Cream: Carefully add the butter and stir until melted, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Finish the Caramel: Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before drizzling over the assembled cake.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for the best tart flavor that complements the sweet caramel and creamy cheesecake.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
- Let the cake layers cool completely before spreading the cheesecake mixture to prevent it from melting or becoming runny.
- You can prepare the caramel sauce in advance and gently reheat before serving.
- For a more intense caramel flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
