Name: No Bake Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 6 tablespoons melted butter; Pinch of salt; For the cheesecake layer:; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 2 cups whipped topping); For the caramel apple topping:; 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 1/3 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake is rich, creamy, and packed with fall flavor—all without ever turning on the oven. It’s simple to make and ideal for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. The layers of crunchy crust, smooth cheesecake, tender apples, and sweet caramel make it irresistible. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect dessert for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

Graham cracker crumbs
Melted butter
Brown sugar
A pinch of salt

For the cheesecake layer:

Cream cheese (softened)
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Heavy whipping cream or whipped topping

For the caramel apple topping:

Apples (peeled and diced)
Butter
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Nutmeg (optional)
Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Directions

Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Chill while preparing the filling.
Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (or use whipped topping). Gently fold into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Make the caramel apple topping: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until apples are tender and caramelized (about 8–10 minutes). Let cool completely.
Spoon the apple mixture over the set cheesecake, then drizzle with caramel sauce.
Chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours (minimum)
Total time: About 4 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Use gingersnap or Biscoff cookies for the crust instead of graham crackers.
Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel version.
Fold chopped cooked apples directly into the cheesecake layer for a layered effect.
Use a pecan crust for added crunch and nuttiness.
Add maple syrup or apple pie spice to the filling for extra seasonal flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
This dessert does not require reheating.
You can freeze the cheesecake (without the apple topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the topping before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly. You can also make your own for a richer flavor.

What apples are best for this recipe?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples hold their shape and add a nice balance of tart and sweet.

Does the cheesecake need to be baked?

No, this is a no-bake recipe. The filling sets in the refrigerator.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s best when chilled overnight and can be made 1–2 days ahead.

How do I know when the cheesecake is set?

It should be firm to the touch and not jiggle when moved. Chilling for at least 4 hours is key.

Can I use whipped topping instead of whipping cream?

Yes, use an equal amount of whipped topping like Cool Whip for convenience.

Is this cheesecake overly sweet?

The sweetness is well-balanced with the tang of cream cheese and the tartness of the apples. You can reduce sugar slightly if desired.

Can I make this in individual servings?

Yes, layer the ingredients in jars or ramekins for mini cheesecakes—perfect for parties.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a standard pie dish or 9-inch cake pan. Just slice carefully when serving.

Can I skip the apples?

You can, but they’re a key part of the flavor. Try using another fruit like pears or skip the topping for a plain caramel cheesecake.

Conclusion

No bake caramel apple cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. With layers of creamy filling, buttery crust, spiced apples, and rich caramel, it delivers all the flavor of a classic fall dessert—without the fuss. Perfect for holidays or anytime you want a make-ahead treat that’s guaranteed to impress.