Gourmet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Extravaganza Delight

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 0.33 cups granulated sugar
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated apples (about 2 medium apples, peeled)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cups brown sugar
• 0.5 cups heavy cream
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• to taste sliced apples
• to taste whipped cream
• to taste additional caramel drizzle

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until golden, then set aside to cool.
5. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until creamy and smooth.
6. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue beating until well incorporated.
7. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, grated apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg until just combined.
8. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center has a slight jiggle.
10. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door. Let the cheesecake cool inside for about 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
11. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
12. Allow it to boil for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
13. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, pour the caramel topping over the surface, letting it flow to the edges.
14. Arrange sliced apples on top and dollop with whipped cream if desired. Drizzle extra caramel over the whipped cream for a lavish touch.