Prepare the Apple Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake the Apple Cakes: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and sour cream, mixing until creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set while the center remains slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown color. Remove from heat and carefully add the butter, stirring until melted. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and salt, then stir in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool slightly.
Assemble the Cake: Layer one apple cake on a serving plate, followed by the cheesecake layer, and then the second apple cake on top. Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce generously over everything.
Serve: Slice and enjoy your delightful Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake!
What to Serve Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake With
This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want to complement the flavors even further, serve it with a warm cup of spiced tea or a scoop of caramel ice cream for an irresistible combination. You might also consider a side of fresh, sliced apples drizzled with a little lemon juice for a refreshingly crunchy contrast!
Top Tips for Perfecting Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake
To make sure your Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake turns out perfect, here are some useful tips:
Use Fresh Apples: Opt for crisp and slightly tart apples, as they will provide the best flavor balance with the sweetness of the caramel.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining your ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser texture.
Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process, especially for the cheesecake. Refrigerating it fully for a few hours will enhance the texture and flavors.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store any leftovers, place the slices in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The cake should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you'd like to extend its life, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, keeping them fresh for about 2 months. To reheat, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then enjoy them at room temperature or heated in the microwave for a soft and comforting treat.
Now that you have all the information, it's time to get baking! This Caramel Apple Cheesecake Cake is sure to dazzle anyone who tries it. Happy baking, and enjoy your sweet creation!