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Apple Cider Cheesecake

This delightful Apple Cider Cheesecake captures the essence of autumn with rich flavors and a creamy texture, making it a perfect dessert for fall gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cheesecake Crust
  • 3 cups apple cider Preferably organic for a cleaner taste.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Freshly ground is ideal for intensity.
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs Cinnamon-flavored graham crackers add extra warmth.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
  • 2 packages cream cheese (8 ounces each), softened Make sure it's at room temperature for a smooth filling.
  • 3/4 cup superfine granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider reduction From the apple cider and cinnamon mixture.
For the Caramel
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream, warmed
  • 1/4 cup reduced apple cider Use the same cider reduction mix.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
For Topping
  • Apples, sliced (optional) Choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith for a tart contrast.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 3 cups of apple cider and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook it down for about 20-22 minutes until the mixture reduces to about 1/3 cup. Let it cool completely.
  2. Preheat the Oven: While the cider cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
  3. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.
  4. Prepare the Filling: In a stand mixer, beat 2 packages of softened cream cheese with the 3/4 cup of superfine sugar until fluffy. Add cooled apple cider reduction, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time.
Baking
  1. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust. Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan and fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes until the filling appears set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cooling and Serving
  1. Cool and Chill: Once baked, let it cool on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Make the Caramel Sauce: Heat sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat, allowing it to melt without stirring. Once amber, whisk in butter and warmed heavy cream. Mix in the reduced apple cider, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let cool.
  3. Serve: Drizzle the cooled caramel over the chilled cheesecake and top with sliced apples if desired.

Notes

Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a week. You can make this dessert a day ahead for better flavor melding. Cracks can be covered with topping if they occur during baking.