- Gingersnap Crumb Biscuit Base: ideal for a crunchy texture (crumbled gingersnap cookies, melted butter)
- Cream Cheese: for the cheesecake base (full-fat cream cheese for richness)
- Granulated Sugar: to sweeten the cheesecake and caramel (cane sugar or granulated sugar preferred)
- All-Purpose Flour: for stabilizing the crust (optional, but helps bind ingredients together)
- Cornstarch: aids in achieving a smooth texture (use as directed on package)
- Salt: to enhance flavors (a pinch of salt)
- Egg Yolks: for binding and richness (eggs provide structure)
- Vanilla Extract: to add flavor depth (pure vanilla extract is best)
- Heavy Cream: adds moisture and richness (use heavy whipping cream for extra volume if desired)
- Butter: melted, used in the caramel topping and for greasing
- Brown Sugar: for the caramel sauce (light or dark brown sugar can be used)
- Water: to make the caramel sauce (adjust quantity as needed to reach desired consistency)
- Corn Syrup: helps prevent crystallization in the caramel (use light corn syrup for best results)
- Salt: a pinch, to balance flavors
- Apples: thinly sliced and coated with lemon juice to prevent browning
- Chocolate Chips or Sprinkles: optional toppings for added flavor (dark chocolate chips or decorative sprinkles can be used)
Keywords: caramel apple mini cheesecakes, ingredients list, gingersnap crumb base, cream cheese, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, egg yolks, vanilla extract, heavy cream, butter, brown sugar, water, corn syrup, caramel sauce, thinly sliced apples, lemon juice, chocolate chips
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Steps
### Caramel Apple Mini Cheesecake Recipe
#### Ingredients:
- **Mini Muffin Cups:** Pre-baked and cooled
- **Cheese Filling:**
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- Pinch of salt
- **Apple Caramel Topping:**
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
#### Equipment:
- Small bowls or mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheet
- Cooling rack
### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### **Preparation:**
1. **Prepare Mini Muffin Cups:** Ensure your mini muffin cups are pre-baked and cooled. If you don't have these, line a small baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
2. **Cheese Filling:**
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add 3/4 cup sugar and mix well to combine.
- Stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, salt, and mix thoroughly.
- Gradually add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The mixture should be creamy and free of lumps.
#### **Assembly:**
1. **Fill Mini Muffin Cups:** Spoon the cheese filling into the pre-baked mini muffin cups, filling about 2/3 full to allow for expansion during baking. Use an ice cream scoop or spoon for even portions.
2. **Bake Cheesecakes:**
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the baking tray with mini cheesecakes on a middle rack and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool completely in the muffin cups. Once cooled, place them in the fridge to chill.
#### **Caramel Apple Topping:**
1. **Cook Apples:** In a large saucepan, sauté diced apple with 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. **Prepare Caramel:** Add 1/2 cup sugar to the pan with the apples and stir gently. Cook without stirring until the mixture turns golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to burn it.
3. **Finish Topping:**
- Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix well.
4. **Drizzle:** Spoon a small amount of caramel over each mini cheesecake before serving. Garnish with additional diced apple if desired.
#### **Serving:**
- Serve these delicious caramel apple mini cheesecakes chilled for the best texture.
- Enjoy this sweet treat either as a dessert or an elegant appetizer at any gathering.
### Tips:
- Always use room temperature ingredients for creamier results in your cheesecake.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of salt to the caramel topping.
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create beautiful and delicious caramel apple mini cheesecakes that are perfect for special occasions or just a fun baking project. Enjoy crafting this recipe!