Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure easy removal of your cheesecake.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well and press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform pan to create a solid crust.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until the batter is completely blended.
4. Layer the Cheesecake: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust in the prepared pan. Spoon the apple pie filling evenly over the batter and drizzle with caramel sauce. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top, smoothing the surface.
5. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges have a light golden color. After baking, turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour.
6. Chill: Once cooled, remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.
7. Garnish & Serve: Before serving, top the cheesecake with chopped apples, crumbled graham crackers, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor and presentation.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours (including cooling and chilling) | Calories: 480 kcal per slice | Servings: 12 slices
