Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the warmth of spiced apple cake, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the decadence of homemade caramel sauce. Each layer harmonizes beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients:

For the Apple Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Cheesecake:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
2. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add the 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. Prepare the Apple Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined.
6. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Bake the Apple Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:

1. Heat Sugar and Water: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
2. Cook Until Amber: Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and allow the mixture to cook until it turns a deep amber color. This should take about 5-7 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
3. Add Cream and Butter: Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully add the warmed heavy cream, whisking constantly. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious. Stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
4. Cool the Caramel: Let the caramel sauce cool for a few minutes before using. It will thicken as it cools.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Layer the Cake: Place one of the cooled apple cakes on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce over the top.
2. Add the Cheesecake Layer: Gently remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on top of the first apple cake layer.
3. Top with the Second Cake Layer: Place the second apple cake layer on top of the cheesecake.
4. Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Pour the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
5. Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve:

1. Garnish (Optional): Before serving, you can garnish the cake with additional apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Cut the cake into slices and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Success:

• Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal for this recipe because of their firm texture and tart flavor, which balances the sweetness of the caramel and cheesecake.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth cheesecake and a well-mixed cake batter.
• Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the cheesecake and cake batters, mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense texture.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake:

• Perfect for Celebrations: This cake is a showstopper, perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.
• A Delightful Combination: The spiced apple cake, creamy cheesecake, and rich caramel sauce create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The components can be made ahead of time, making assembly on the day of your event quick and easy.

Enjoy this indulgent and flavorful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake as a centerpiece dessert for your next gathering!