Caramel Apple Cheesecake

#### 3. **Bake the Cheesecake**
Wrap the springform pan with foil and place it in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides (water bath method). Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is almost set.

Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour inside. Then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

#### 4. **Prepare the Apple Topping**
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized. Let cool.

#### 5. **Make the Caramel Sauce**
In a saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns amber. Add butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the cream and stir until smooth. Add a pinch of salt. Let cool slightly.

#### 6. **Assemble the Cheesecake**
Top the chilled cheesecake with the sautéed apples. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce. Serve with extra caramel on the side (trust us, people will ask for more).

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### 🍽️ Tips for Success

– **Room temperature ingredients** = smoother filling with no lumps.
– **Use a water bath** to avoid cracks and ensure even baking.
– **Chill overnight** for the best texture and flavor development.
– **Use tart apples** like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweet caramel.

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### 🎉 Perfect For:

– Holiday gatherings
– Fall parties and potlucks
– Special celebrations (or cozy weekends at home)
– Gifting a homemade treat!

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### ✨ Final Thoughts

**Caramel Apple Cheesecake** is everything you could want in a dessert: creamy, dreamy, spiced just right, and dripping in rich caramel. It’s like wrapping your favorite apple pie in a velvety cheesecake blanket — warm, indulgent, and impossible to resist.

Whether you’re making it for guests or just treating yourself, one thing’s for sure: this dessert will steal the spotlight and have everyone asking for the recipe. 🍏🍰💛

**Pro Tip:** Make two. One for them, and one for you. 😉