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Apple Cider Cheesecake

A creamy, spiced cheesecake that celebrates the warmth of fall with apple cider and homemade caramel drizzle.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 6 hours
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Cheesecake
  • 3 cups apple cider Look for a brand that’s 100% pure apple cider for real flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Always good to use fresh spices to unlock their potent flavors.
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs Homemade crumbs can add an extra crunch, but store-bought is easy too.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Room temperature for easy mixing.
  • 2 packages cream cheese, softened Recommended brand is Philadelphia for its consistent quality.
  • 3/4 cup superfine granulated sugar It dissolves better, giving a smoother texture.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Always choose pure vanilla for the best flavor.
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider reduction
For the Caramel Topping
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter You can use organic butter for richer taste.
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream, warmed
  • 1/4 cup reduced apple cider
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch kosher salt Elevates the flavors wonderfully!
  • to taste apples, sliced for topping (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 3 cups of apple cider and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Allow it to simmer until it reduces down to about 1/3 cup, about 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
  3. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons melted butter. Mix until crumbly, then press into the bottom of the pan evenly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 packages of softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup superfine sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add in 2 tablespoons of cooled cider reduction, 1/4 cup sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and combined. Add in 3 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Baking
  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan, and fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes until set around the edges but slightly wiggly in the center.
  2. Remove from the oven, and let cool on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Caramel Preparation
  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 1 cup of granulated sugar over medium heat without stirring. Let it cook until it turns amber, about 10 minutes.
  2. Once melted, stir in 6 tablespoons unsalted butter until melted and smooth. Carefully add 1/3 cup warm heavy cream, 1/4 cup reduced apple cider, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt. Allow to bubble and thicken for a minute or two, then set aside to cool.
Serving
  1. After the cheesecake has chilled, drizzle your caramel sauce over the top or serve on the side. Optionally, top with sliced fresh apples for a vibrant touch.

Notes

Keep cream cheese and eggs at room temperature for smoother batter. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 2 months.