Irresistibly Sweet Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Decadent caramel apple cheesecake cake combines classic dessert favorites into one irresistible treat.

Sweet layers promise a delightful culinary adventure for passionate bakers.

Crisp autumn apples and rich cream cheese create a luxurious base for this indulgent creation.

Smooth caramel ribbons weave through each delectable slice, adding complexity and depth.

Seasonal spices whisper warmth throughout the entire masterpiece.

Each carefully crafted bite delivers a symphony of textures and flavors that dance across your palate.

Why Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Is a Delicious Treat

• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Combine the rich flavors of spice cake, creamy cheesecake, and sweet caramel for a showstopping treat that will impress family and friends at any gathering.
• Layered Luxury: Create a stunning multi-layered dessert that looks professionally made, with minimal baking skills required and maximum visual appeal.
• Seasonal Sensation: Incorporate fresh chopped apples into the cake batter, making this recipe a perfect autumn-inspired dessert that captures the warm, comforting flavors of the season.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the components in advance and assemble the cake when ready, allowing for stress-free entertaining and flexible meal planning.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

• Spice Cake Mix: A premade mix that provides the foundational flavor and texture for the cake layers.
• Apples: Fresh fruit that adds moisture and natural sweetness to the cake batter.

• Cream Cheese: A rich and creamy base that creates the smooth texture of the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the tangy cream cheese.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake mixture together.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor to enhance the cheesecake.
• Sour Cream: Contributes to the creamy texture and adds a subtle tanginess.

• Caramel Sauce: A sweet, golden sauce that adds richness and moisture to the cake layers and top.
• Whipped Topping: A light and fluffy frosting that covers the entire cake.
• Pecans: Toasted nuts that provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cheesecake.

Instructions to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven and Prepare Cake Pans

Turn the oven to 350F (175C). Coat two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Apple-Infused Cake Batter

Mix the spice cake according to package directions. Gently fold chopped apples into the batter. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared pans and bake as recommended on the package.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Incorporate vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare Cheesecake Base

Grease a 9-inch springform pan. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the pan. Drizzle caramel sauce across the top and create swirls using a knife. Sprinkle toasted pecans evenly over the surface.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Reduce oven temperature to 325F (160C). Bake the cheesecake for 45-50 minutes until the center sets firmly. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely inside the pan.

Step 6: Construct the Cake Foundation

Place the first spice cake layer on a serving plate.

Step 7: Add Caramel Layer

Spread a generous layer of caramel sauce over the cake. Carefully position the cooled cheesecake layer on top.

Step 8: Complete the Cake Stack

Position the second spice cake layer on top of the cheesecake. Cover the entire cake with fluffy whipped topping.

Step 9: Final Caramel Drizzle

Generously drizzle additional caramel sauce over the whipped topping, creating an appetizing design.

Step 10: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for a minimum of 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and set. Slice and enjoy this decadent dessert!

Helpful Tips for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

• Select Fresh Apples: Choose crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture in your spice cake batter.
• Toast Pecans Perfectly: Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor and crunch before sprinkling on the cheesecake.
• Control Caramel Swirling: Use a toothpick or thin knife to create delicate caramel swirls in the cheesecake layer for a beautiful marbled effect without overmixing.
• Prevent Cheesecake Cracking: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack to create moisture and prevent surface cracks.

Creative Variations for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

• Gluten-Free Apple Cheesecake Cake: Replace spice cake mix with gluten-free cake mix and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
• Vegan Apple Caramel Cheesecake: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use egg replacer, coconut whipped topping, and plant-based caramel sauce.
• Low-Sugar Apple Cheesecake Cake: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener, use sugar-free caramel sauce, and include almond flour in cake base for reduced carbohydrates.
• Dairy-Free Apple Caramel Cake: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternative like almond-based cheese, coconut cream instead of sour cream, and dairy-free whipped topping.

Pairing Recommendations for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

• Pair Sweet Apple Cider: Complement the caramel and apple flavors with a chilled, crisp apple cider that echoes the cake's fruity notes and enhances its warmth.
• Serve Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Scoop a creamy vanilla bean ice cream alongside the cake to provide a cool, smooth contrast against the rich, spiced dessert and create a delightful temperature balance.
• Match Salted Caramel Latte: Brew a salted caramel latte to mirror the cake's caramel undertones and add a sophisticated coffee depth that cuts through the dessert's sweetness.
• Suggest Spiced Rum Cocktail: Mix a light spiced rum cocktail with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg to complement the spice cake's warm flavors and elevate the overall dessert experience.

Proper Storage for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
• Slice the cake into individual portions, wrap each piece separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Transfer frozen cake slices to the refrigerator overnight. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to soften and enhance flavors.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on low power, or use a toaster oven at 50% heat to prevent the whipped topping from melting completely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

• Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any firm baking apple like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Choose apples that hold their shape and provide a nice tartness to balance the sweetness.

• How do I know if the cheesecake is fully baked?

The cheesecake is done when the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. It will continue to set as it cools. A gentle shake of the pan should show a slight wobble in the center.

• Is it necessary to toast the pecans?

Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds a deeper, nuttier taste to the cake. If you’re short on time, you can use untoasted pecans, but toasting brings out a richer flavor profile.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 70 minutes (3 hours 10 minutes)
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sinful caramel apple cheesecake cake blends creamy indulgence with classic fall flavors, creating a dessert that whispers comfort and celebration. Layers of rich cheesecake nestled between spiced apple cake promise pure deliciousness you won’t want to miss.

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Ingredients

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Cake Layers:

• 1 box spice cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) water
• 2 cups (300 grams) chopped apples (about 2 medium apples), peeled and cored

Cheesecake Layer:

• 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 cup (100 grams) chopped pecans, toasted

Frosting:

• 1 tub whipped topping

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Instructions

1. Prepare the spice cake mixture according to package guidelines, gently incorporating diced apples into the batter to ensure even distribution.
2. Divide the apple-infused batter between two greased 9-inch round cake pans, then bake at 350F (175C) following package instructions until golden and fully cooked.
3. While cakes are baking, create the cheesecake base by whipping cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth, then gradually incorporate eggs, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
4. Blend vanilla extract and sour cream into the cheesecake mixture, ensuring a uniform and creamy consistency.
5. Transfer the cheesecake batter to a prepared springform pan, generously drizzle caramel sauce across the surface, and create elegant swirls using a knife.
6. Evenly scatter toasted pecans over the cheesecake batter for added texture and nutty flavor.
7. Bake the cheesecake at 325F (160C) for 45-50 minutes until the center sets and appears slightly firm.
8. Allow both the cake layers and cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.
9. Position the first spice cake layer on a decorative serving plate, then lavishly spread caramel sauce across its surface.
10. Carefully place the cooled cheesecake layer atop the caramel-coated cake layer.
11. Crown the dessert with the second spice cake layer and enrobe the entire cake with fluffy whipped topping.
12. Create an elegant finish by drizzling additional caramel sauce over the whipped topping.
13. Refrigerate the assembled cake for a minimum of 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and texture to set before serving.

Notes

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and prevent lumps in the cheesecake batter.
• Toast pecans beforehand for enhanced nutty flavor and crunch by spreading them on a baking sheet and roasting at 350F for 8-10 minutes.
• Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil when baking cheesecake to prevent water from seeping in during a potential water bath method.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the spice cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 493 kcal
• Sugar: 34 g
• Sodium: 232 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg