Caramel Apple Cheesecake Delight for Easy Indulgence

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 0.25 cups brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 0.5 cups sour cream
• 2 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.25 cups brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 0.5 cups caramel sauce
• 1 serving whipped cream
• 1 serving chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 serving extra caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a large bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer.
2. Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in the vanilla, cinnamon, and sour cream until everything is incorporated.
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top. Bake in the oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
5. While the cheesecake is baking, heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender but not mushy. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Once the cheesecake is done baking, allow it to cool in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. Then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Arrange the cooked apple topping over the cheesecake, drizzling caramel sauce generously over the apples.
8. Serve each slice topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped pecans if desired, and an additional drizzle of caramel sauce.