If you have a sweet tooth and a love for cozy autumn flavors, the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This stunning dessert brings together moist, spiced apple cake layers layered beneath a decadent, creamy cheesecake swirl and topped with a luscious homemade caramel sauce. Each bite tells a story of warm cinnamon, tart Granny Smith apples, and rich sweetness that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe will wow anyone lucky enough to try it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this dessert is straightforward and rewarding. Each one plays an important role in building the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this cake unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the apple cake, providing structure and tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise to light, fluffy perfection.
- Salt: Enhances all the sweet notes while balancing flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cakes.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cake and cheesecake layers beautifully.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide lift.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm, aromatic flavor to cake, cheesecake, and caramel sauce.
- Whole milk: Moistens the cake while adding tenderness.
- Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Fresh, peeled, and finely chopped for that perfect tart bite and moist texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the apple cake with its signature warming spice.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds depth and autumnal earthiness.
- Cream cheese: Smooth, creamy base for the cheesecake layer.
- Sugar (for cheesecake): Sweetens the cheesecake while keeping it silky.
- Granulated sugar (for caramel): Transforms to rich caramel when cooked properly.
- Water (for caramel): Helps dissolve sugar evenly.
- Heavy cream: Creates that luscious, velvety texture in the caramel sauce.
- Butter (for caramel): Adds richness and shine to the sauce.
- Salt (pinch in caramel): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and preparing two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring each thoroughly. This crucial step ensures your cake layers come out cleanly and maintain their shape.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients for the Apple Cake
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These ingredients create a harmonized spice base that will imbue the cake with every delectable note of autumn.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is the secret to a tender crumb and a cake that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. These steps build structure while deepening flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Then gently fold in your chopped apples, sprinkling in bursts of tart, fresh flavor throughout.
Step 6: Combine Cheesecake Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until creamy. Incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, making sure the texture is silky and velvety.
Step 7: Layer the Cake and Cheesecake Mixtures
Evenly divide the apple cake batter between your prepared pans, then spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of each. This layering creates a beautiful marbled effect once baked, blending spiced apples and creamy cheesecake perfectly.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake your layered pans for 45 to 50 minutes. Look for set cheesecake edges with a slightly jiggly center; it will firm up as it cools. The cake edges should develop a gentle golden hue, signaling readiness.
Step 9: Make Your Caramel Sauce
In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sugar and water and stir until sugar dissolves. Stop stirring and let the mixture turn a deep amber caramel color. Carefully add warmed heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps, then remove from heat and whisk in butter, vanilla, and salt for that unforgettable drizzle.
Step 10: Cool and Assemble Your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
After baking, cool cakes in their pans for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to reach room temperature. Once cooled, place one cake layer on your serving dish and generously drizzle with caramel sauce. Add the second cake layer on top, finishing with more caramel sauce and optional chopped apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A few thoughtfully chosen garnishes elevate presentation and flavor. Think crisp apple slices, a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for added crunch. These small touches transform your dessert into an irresistible showstopper.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with light, fresh accompaniments. Consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of slightly tangy whipped cream. A lightly brewed cup of chai or spiced apple cider can also accentuate the cake’s warm spices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your cake on a rustic wooden board or a vintage cake stand. Drizzle some extra caramel around the plate and perhaps add edible flowers or fresh herbs like mint for unexpected freshness and vibrance that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe stays moist and delicious in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Proper storage ensures flavors meld beautifully, making every slice taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This cake freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add fresh caramel sauce just before serving.
Reheating
For a touch of warmth, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until just warm. Avoid overheating to keep the cheesecake layer creamy and the apple cake tender. Add a fresh drizzle of caramel sauce after warming.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for their balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with Fuji or Gala apples—you may get a sweeter, milder flavor. Just be sure to peel and finely chop for even baking.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the cake’s texture.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done baking?
The edges of the cheesecake layer should be set and slightly golden with only a small jiggle remaining in the center. Remember, the cheesecake firms up as it cools, so slight movement is perfectly okay.
Can I prepare the caramel sauce ahead of time?
You can make the caramel sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Rewarm gently on the stove or in the microwave before using, whisking to restore smoothness and shine.
What’s the best way to slice this layered cake?
Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe the blade clean between cuts to keep each slice looking neat and keep layers distinct. Chilling the cake briefly before slicing makes this even easier.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe is truly a labor of love that rewards you with incredible layers of autumnal flavor and creamy indulgence. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy treat on a chilly evening, it’s sure to bring smiles and warm your heart. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this memorable dessert your own—it will quickly become a cherished favorite.
Print
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake is a deliciously layered dessert combining a spiced apple cake with a smooth cheesecake topping, all drizzled generously with homemade caramel sauce. Featuring Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for tartness balanced by rich cream cheese and a buttery caramel drizzle, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion. The soft cake layers with cinnamon and nutmeg meld beautifully with creamy cheesecake and warm caramel flavors.
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients for Cake: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender cake. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing and tough cake texture.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the peeled and finely chopped apples to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Divide Batter: Divide the apple cake batter evenly between the two prepared 9-inch cake pans.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and beat until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to flavor.
- Layer Cheesecake Over Cake Batter: Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the apple cake batter in each pan, creating a layered effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center may still jiggle slightly but will firm as it cools.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sugar and water. Stir gently until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to cook until it reaches a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in the warmed heavy cream; it will bubble vigorously. Continue whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly.
- Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 15 minutes before removing them and transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
- Add Second Layer: Carefully place the second cake layer on top and drizzle with more caramel sauce.
- Optional Garnish: Garnish with additional chopped apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor and presentation appeal.
- Serve: Cut into 12-16 slices depending on size and enjoy the harmonious flavors of spiced apples, creamy cheesecake, and rich caramel.
Notes
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture contrast.
- Chocolate chips or nuts can be added to the apple cake batter for a variation.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake mixture.
- Caramel sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; warm before using.
- The cheesecake center should jiggle slightly when done; it firms up as it cools to perfect consistency.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
