If you have a sweet tooth that loves the cozy flavors of fall, then the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This rich, multi-layered dessert brings together moist, spiced apple cake with a luscious cheesecake center, all drizzled generously with homemade caramel sauce. Every bite is a harmonious blend of tart apples, creamy cheesecake, and buttery caramel that feels like a big warm hug, perfect for celebrations or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this cake could not be easier because the ingredients are straightforward but pack so much flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance between cake, cheesecake, and caramel.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and crumb texture for the apple cake layers.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise and gives it a light, tender texture.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Infuses warmth and a classic spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors, making the sweetness pop.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake batter.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and caramel while balancing tartness from the apples.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and help the cake hold together.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and a lovely aromatic note to both the cake and caramel.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake tender and moist with a slight tang.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds softness and ensures the batter is smooth.
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith): The star ingredient adding tartness, texture, and fruity freshness.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The base of the creamy cheesecake layer that contrasts the spiced cake perfectly.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cheesecake filling.
- 1 egg: Helps the cheesecake layer set with a silky texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For the decadent caramel sauce that ties everything together.
- 6 tbsp butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the caramel.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the caramel luscious and velvety.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Provides warmth and complexity to the caramel sauce.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the caramel’s flavor.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cake Batter
Begin by combining your dry ingredients in a medium bowl — flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This spice mix is what makes the cake warmly scented and perfectly balanced. Then, in a separate large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until it turns light and fluffy; this aeration helps give your cake a beautiful crumb. Add eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before the next, and pour in vanilla extract. Next, alternate adding your dry ingredients with sour cream and milk — this technique keeps the batter smooth and moist. Finally, fold in your chopped Granny Smith apples, whose tartness will cut through the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly into greased cake pans and pop them in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before moving on; this is crucial to ensure your cheesecake layer doesn’t melt or slide.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
For the luscious middle layer, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth. Then, add one egg and mix just until combined — overmixing can create cracks later on, and we want that creamy perfection.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled apple cake layer on your serving plate. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly on top, smoothing it out with a spatula. Gently place the second cake layer over the cheesecake and press lightly so everything adheres together nicely.
Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
This part is pure magic. Over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a gorgeous golden brown color. Then, carefully add butter, followed by heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Simmer everything for a couple of minutes to thicken, and then let it cool slightly — the aroma alone is enough to make you swoon.
Step 6: Finish with Caramel Drizzle
Pour the warm caramel sauce generously over the assembled cake, letting it cascade down the sides for that irresistibly glossy finish. This final touch brings the whole Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe to life.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch. A dusting of cinnamon or a few thin apple slices arranged like petals add a fresh, vibrant look. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of lightly whipped cream alongside each slice complements the rich layers perfectly.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat. If it’s a special occasion, serving it alongside vanilla ice cream creates an impressive dessert duet that guests will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual mini versions in ramekins or mason jars for easy sharing and a rustic vibe. Or, drizzle the caramel just before serving so everyone gets that fresh, warm sticky sweetness. Elevate your dessert table with a few fall-themed decorations like cinnamon sticks or edible flowers around the cake plate for a beautiful, inviting display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, wrap the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days — lots of time to indulge in second and third helpings!
Freezing
If you want to save some for much later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked feel, let the thawed cake come to room temperature. Warm slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds if you like your cake slightly warmed — the caramel becomes perfectly gooey and the cheesecake softens slightly, enhancing the flavors even more.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firmness, but you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a slightly sweeter or softer bite. Just make sure to peel and chop them uniformly for even baking.
Is it possible to make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramel sauce a day before, store it in the fridge, and gently warm it before drizzling. Just warm it slowly on low heat or in the microwave to avoid burning or separating.
Can I substitute sour cream in this recipe?
If sour cream isn’t handy, plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as a substitute. They provide similar moisture and tanginess that are key to the cake’s tender crumb.
How do I ensure my cheesecake layer doesn’t crack?
Mix the cheesecake filling just until combined and avoid overbeating. Also, make sure the cake layers are completely cooled before adding the cheesecake mixture. Baking at the right temperature and avoiding sudden temperature changes helps maintain a smooth surface.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures 1:1, and make sure your baking powder or soda is gluten-free. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for a dessert that wraps up all the best fall flavors into one slice, you simply have to try this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe. It’s a showstopper at any gathering and a soul-satisfying treat to enjoy with family and friends. Once you taste that silky cheesecake layer sandwiched between tender apple cake and topped with rich caramel, you’ll be dreaming of making it again and again.
Print
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake combines a moist apple-infused cake layered with creamy cheesecake and topped with rich homemade caramel sauce. Perfect for fall or any special occasion, this dessert features tender chunks of Granny Smith apples, warm cinnamon spice, and a luscious caramel finish that creates a comforting and indulgent treat.
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
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Beat Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry flour mixture alternately with sour cream and milk to the wet ingredients, mixing gently to create a balanced, moist batter. Fold in the peeled and chopped apples evenly.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between prepared cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembly.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and mix until fully combined.
- Assemble Cake: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over one of the cooled apple cake layers. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and press gently to sandwich the cheesecake filling.
- Prepare Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar while stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown color, indicating caramelization.
- Add Butter and Cream: Stir in the butter until melted, then carefully add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, continuing to stir.
- Simmer Caramel: Allow the caramel sauce to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly to thicken before drizzling over the cake.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for the best balance of tartness and texture in the cake.
- Be careful when melting sugar for caramel—as it can quickly burn if unattended.
- Allow cake layers to cool completely before adding the cheesecake layer to prevent melting.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and chilled, which enhances the flavors.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
