Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert to bring a little magic to your next gathering, look no further than this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake. Imagine layers of fluffy spice cake studded with juicy apples, a luscious cinnamon-kissed cheesecake in the center, and generous ribbons of gooey caramel dripping over the top. Every bite is a delightful dance between cozy fall flavors and creamy, dreamy decadence—it’s basically your favorite caramel apple and classic cheesecake combined, all wrapped up in a show-stopping cake.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake are delightfully simple, yet each one is essential to building those unforgettable layers of taste and texture. Here’s a peek at what you’ll need and why each component matters in this flavor-packed treat.

• Spice cake mix: This brings out the best in autumn spices with zero fuss, giving the foundational warmth and fluffiness to the cake layers.
• Large apples (peeled and diced): Fresh apple pieces create juicy bursts and a pleasant tang—try Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for just the right balance of tart and sweet!
• Flour: A quick toss with the apples helps keep them evenly distributed and prevents soggy pockets in your cake.
• Cream cheese (softened): The heart of the cheesecake layer, lending smooth, creamy richness you can’t get anywhere else.
• Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetening both cheesecake and balancing the tang of the apples.
• Large eggs: They bind the cheesecake filling together, creating that classic, custardy texture.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings out the real depth of flavor and ties the cake and cheesecake together.
• Sour cream: Adds a gentle zing and ultra-creamy finish to the cheesecake layer.
• Heavy cream: Ensures the cheesecake is luxuriously soft and dreamy without being overly dense.
• Cinnamon: This touch of spice bridges the flavors in the cake and the cheesecake, making each bite taste like autumn.
• Caramel sauce: The absolute showstopper—swirled inside the cake and drizzled on top for a glossy, irresistible finish.
• Chopped pecans (optional): For added crunch and a lovely nutty accent; totally optional but totally worth it.
• Butter and flour (for greasing pans): A trusty duo to ensure your layers slip easily from their pans, keeping everything intact and beautiful.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F, which gives both the cake and cheesecake plenty of time to rise and bake without browning too quickly. Take a moment to butter and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and a 9-inch springform pan—this tiny effort will make your cake assembly (and pan cleanup) SO much easier!

Step 2: Mix and Bake the Spice Apple Cake Layers

Prepare the spice cake mix by following the instructions on the box, creating that signature fluffy, spiced batter. Toss your diced apples with a tablespoon of flour (to help them stay suspended) and fold them into the batter. Pour the batter evenly into your two prepared cake pans, smooth the tops, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before moving on—this helps everything come out neat and tidy later.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cinnamon Cheesecake Layer

While your cake layers are cooling, it’s time to focus on the indulgent heart of your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until everything’s beautifully smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla, sour cream, heavy cream, and cinnamon until perfectly combined. Pour this mixture into your waiting springform pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set but still has a gentle jiggle. Let it cool completely, then pop it in the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours—it’s even better if you let it set overnight!

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Now the magic happens! Place one cooled cake layer on your favorite cake stand or serving plate. Carefully release and transfer the chilled cheesecake layer on top (a large flat spatula helps here!), then gently set the second cake layer over the cheesecake. Take a deep breath—your masterpiece is almost ready.

Step 5: Caramel Drizzle and Garnish

Warm up the caramel sauce just a little to make it easily pourable, then generously drizzle it over the top and down the sides of your cake, letting it cascade in tempting rivulets. If you love a little crunch, sprinkle a handful of chopped pecans over everything for extra texture and festive flair. Chill before slicing to let the caramel set and the layers meld together in perfect harmony.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake

Garnishes

You can go simple or showy with your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake toppings. Aside from the tried-and-true chopped pecans, try a dusting of cinnamon, a crown of thin apple slices, or even a scatter of toffee bits for extra fun. A final drizzle of caramel just before serving adds that dazzling, glossy finish guests can’t resist.

Side Dishes

This cake is a complete star on its own, but if you’re aiming for a full dessert spread, pair it with scoops of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a lighter contrast, offer coffee, apple cider, or spiced chai tea on the side—they’re perfect for balancing out all those rich, cozy layers.

Creative Ways to Present

Individual slices look gorgeous served on pretty dessert plates, especially with a little extra caramel at the table for drizzling. For special occasions, try baking mini versions of the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake in individual jars or small pans—they make adorable and memorable party favors. Or, cut the assembled cake into bite-size cubes for a sweet, elegant “dessert board” presentation with fresh fruit and candy pieces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover your cake tightly and refrigerate. The flavors only deepen and improve over 2 to 3 days, and it stays tasting beautifully fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake freezes wonderfully! For best results, slice the cake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store in a zip-top bag or airtight container. When frozen, it keeps its flavor and texture for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

This cake is terrific chilled, but if you like it slightly warm (hello, gooey caramel!), just microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds. A quick warm-up enhances the sauce and softens the cake layers—just don’t overdo it, or the cheesecake may get a little too soft.

FAQs

Can I make Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely—this cake is a make-ahead dream! The cheesecake layer benefits from some extra chill time, and assembled Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake can be prepared up to a day in advance. Just keep it chilled until serving for best results.

What type Dessert

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are great choices—their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake and caramel, and they hold their shape beautifully during baking.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce instead of storebought?

Yes! Homemade caramel sauce adds that extra-special homemade touch. Just make sure it’s fully cooled and pourable before drizzling over your cake layers for the most even coverage.

How do I prevent the cake layers from sticking to the pans?

Grease your pans well with butter and a dusting of flour, tapping out the excess—the cake layers will release much more easily, making assembly stress-free.

Is this cake gluten-free or can it be made gluten-free?

While the original recipe uses a traditional spice cake mix, there are gluten-free spice cake mixes available. Swap in your favorite gluten-free cake mix and check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free to make the entire Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake safe for those with sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s truly a showstopper, this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake is my hands-down recommendation. It’s cozy, deliciously layered, and positively memorable—one of those rare cakes where every bite is met with happy sighs. Trust me, once you share it with friends or family, you’ll be asked to make it again and again!

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