These Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes are a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel apples, and a buttery graham cracker crust. The soft apples, enhanced with cinnamon and caramel, create a flavor profile that’s warm and comforting, ideal for fall gatherings.
With each bite, you get a perfect combination of flavors that will make this dessert your go-to for special occasions. They’re easy to serve, and their mini size makes them perfect for sharing, so you can enjoy them with friends and family alike. Plus, they’re simple enough to make at home but look impressive enough for a festive dessert table.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup sugar
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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16 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup sugar
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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2 large eggs
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2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
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1 tablespoon butter
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup caramel sauce
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
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In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
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Spoon the graham cracker mixture into each cupcake liner and press it down to form a crust.
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In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour the cream cheese mixture into each muffin cup, over the graham cracker crust.
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Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the centers are set. Allow cheesecakes to cool completely before removing them from the muffin tin.
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While cooling, prepare the apple topping. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until apples are softened and caramelized.
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Stir in heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Let cool.
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Once cheesecakes have cooled, spoon the apple mixture onto the top of each cheesecake.
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Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
Why You’ll Love These Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes
These cheesecakes are perfect for anyone who loves desserts with multiple textures and flavors. The base, made with buttery graham cracker crumbs, is the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness, providing a sturdy foundation for the creamy and smooth cheesecake filling. Topped with cinnamon-spiced caramel apples and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce, these mini cheesecakes are a treat that’s sure to impress both visually and with every bite.
Another reason to love this recipe is how easy it is to make. Unlike a traditional cheesecake, which often requires baking in a water bath and long cooling times, these mini cheesecakes come together quickly and are baked in individual muffin tins. This method ensures that you get the same creamy texture and delicious flavor of a traditional cheesecake without the hassle of a long and complicated process.
The Perfect Dessert for Fall Gatherings
Fall is the season for family get-togethers, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving feasts, and everything in between. Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes are the perfect dessert to serve at any of these occasions. Their individual portion sizes make them easy to serve to guests, and their stunning presentation will make them the centerpiece of your dessert table.
The apple topping is a fantastic way to showcase the flavors of fall, with the cinnamon and caramel making these mini cheesecakes feel like a warm, cozy hug. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply indulging in a family night, these cheesecakes will make any occasion feel special.
The Beauty of Mini Cheesecakes
One of the standout features of this recipe is that it’s made in muffin tins, which creates the perfect mini portions for serving. These mini cheesecakes are not only easier to make than a traditional large cheesecake, but they also have a visual appeal that makes them perfect for sharing. The individual size means that everyone can enjoy their own portion, which is great for portion control and keeping things neat and tidy. Plus, mini desserts are just inherently cute!
Each cheesecake has a perfect ratio of crust, cheesecake filling, and topping, so every bite is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The graham cracker crust adds a bit of crunch, while the creamy cheesecake filling is smooth and indulgent. The apple topping gives it a burst of sweetness and warmth, and the caramel sauce takes it over the top.
Customization Options for Your Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes
While this recipe is perfect as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the graham crackers for gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free cookie option. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream or another plant-based alternative for the sour cream.
You can also play around with the apple variety you use. While any sweet-tart apple will work well, try experimenting with different types like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for subtle variations in flavor and texture. For an extra twist, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the apple topping for a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
If you want to take the caramel apple theme even further, you could drizzle the cheesecakes with a salted caramel sauce or even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
How to Make These Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes Ahead of Time
If you’re preparing for a busy event or want to take some stress out of your baking day, mini cheesecakes are a great make-ahead option. You can easily prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
After baking, allow the cheesecakes to cool completely before removing them from the muffin tin. Once cooled, cover them with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, top them with the caramelized apples and caramel sauce, and they’ll be just as delicious as if you made them the same day.
The Ultimate Fall Flavor Profile
The combination of cinnamon, apples, and caramel is the ultimate fall flavor profile. These ingredients are often associated with autumn and evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying the crisp fall air or curling up on the couch with a blanket, this dessert pairs perfectly with the season.
The apples add a fresh, fruity sweetness to the cheesecakes, while the caramel adds a deep, rich flavor that complements the smooth and tangy cream cheese filling. The cinnamon brings warmth and spice, making these cheesecakes the perfect dessert to enjoy after a hearty fall meal or as a treat with a cup of hot cider.
The Best Way to Serve These Mini Cheesecakes
Serving mini cheesecakes is a breeze because they are already in individual portions. To make them even more impressive, you can top each cheesecake with a little whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra flair. If you’re hosting a party or dinner, consider serving them on a decorative platter or cake stand to create a beautiful presentation.
These mini caramel apple cheesecakes pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve them with a cup of coffee or tea for a light dessert after a meal, or pair them with a glass of white wine or apple cider to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes are the ideal dessert for fall and any occasion that calls for something sweet and comforting. They combine the best flavors of autumn in a way that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a dessert to bring to a potluck, or simply want to treat yourself, these mini cheesecakes are sure to be a hit. The creamy filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and spiced caramel apple topping are a match made in dessert heaven. Give this recipe a try and indulge in the flavors of fall with every bite!