What is the difference between caramel apple cheesecake and salted caramel apple pie cheesecake?

Caramel apple cheesecake focuses on creamy cheesecake and sweet caramel with apples, while salted caramel apple pie cheesecake adds a buttery pie crust, sea salt in the caramel, and a layered dessert experience. This luxurious caramel apple cheesecake offers a richer flavor profile and indulgent texture.

Can I make this recipe as a no-bake apple pie cheesecake?

Yes! The no-bake apple pie cheesecake version uses chilled Philadelphia cream cheese filling and sets in the refrigerator, creating a creamy, smooth, and easy caramel apple cheesecake without baking.

How do I make the salted caramel sauce smooth and rich?

For the best salted caramel apple pie cheesecake, melt sugar slowly, whisk in butter carefully, then add cream and sea salt. Using smooth Philadelphia cream cheese in the cheesecake filling enhances the rich, luxurious caramel apple cheesecake texture.

What is the best way to serve salted caramel apple pie cheesecake?

Serve chilled with extra caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or a cinnamon crumble topping. This apple pie cheesecake no bake or baked version shines as a luxurious caramel apple cheesecake for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy dessert nights.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake – Easy No-Bake Recipe 2026

Description

A decadent dessert combining creamy cheesecake, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and buttery pie crust, all drizzled with rich salted caramel sauce. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, this cheesecake can be baked or made no-bake for convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch cheesecake):

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Apple Pie Layer:

2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz (450 g) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or heavy cream

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

¾ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
¼ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon sea salt

Optional Topping:

Whipped cream
Extra caramel drizzle
Crushed graham crackers or cinnamon crumble

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake 8–10 minutes. Cool.

Step 2: Cook Apples

In a skillet, toss apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour.
Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened. Let cool.

Step 3: Make Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream/heavy cream.

Step 4: Assemble Cheesecake

Spread half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
Layer the cooked apples evenly.
Top with the remaining cheesecake filling. Smooth the surface.

Step 5: Bake or Chill

Baked version: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45–50 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate 4+ hours.
No-bake version: Chill in refrigerator 6–8 hours or overnight until set.

Step 6: Make Salted Caramel Sauce

Melt sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until amber.
Whisk in butter carefully. Slowly add cream, stirring constantly.
Stir in sea salt. Cool slightly before drizzling over cheesecake.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with whipped cream, extra caramel, and optional crumble. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Apple Tip: Use firm apples that hold shape when baked.
Make Ahead: Cheesecake can be made a day ahead for best flavor.
No-Bake Shortcut: Skip baking crust and filling; assemble chilled for a quick version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert / Cheesecake
Method: Baked or No-Bake
Cuisine: American