This delightful caramel apple cheesecake salad combines various ingredients to create a light and creamy treat. At the center are cream cheese and sugar, which are blended together before anything else is added. Next, whipped topping is folded in, followed by diced apples which contribute their fresh flavor. Additional mix-ins like nuts, marshmallows or Snickers bars are sometimes included as well.
What makes the salad so enjoyable is the balance of textures. The cream cheese and whipped topping base becomes airy and fluffy when mixed. Meanwhile, the chopped apples and mix-ins provide contrasting pleasant chews. Best of all, a drizzle of sweet caramel sauce ties it all together!
Due to its simplicity, the salad is very easy to assemble. No baking is required either, allowing it to be whipped up quickly. Its versatility also makes it ideal for potlucks and entertaining. Finally, it tastes great and chilled within a day of preparation.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Salad Ingredients
Here are the main ingredients I used to make my caramel apple cheesecake salad:
1. Cream cheese – I softened it to make a light and fluffy base when mixed with sugar.
2. Powdered sugar – Also known as confectioners’ sugar, I incorporated it into the cream cheese for sweetness.
3. Caramel sauce – Drizzling it over the top added richness and complexity to the flavors.
4. Heavy whipping cream – Whipped until thick, it added volume and creaminess when folded into the cheesecake layer.
5. Apple pie filling – Its spiced apple pieces provided a burst of fruity goodness throughout the salad.
6. Graham cracker crust – I used a pre-made crust to contain the layers, acting as an edible bowl.
Through these key components, I was able to easily produce a delightful salad that showcased the signature flavors of fall. The variety of textures from crispy to creamy to fruity made each bite extremely satisfying.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
1-1 ½ cup caramel sauce
2 cups heavy whipping cream
21 oz apple pie filling
1 9″ graham cracker pie crust
How I Made the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Salad in My Kitchen
First, I allowed the cream cheese to soften on the counter so it would mix smoothly. Next, I added the powdered sugar and beat the two together.
After pouring in caramel sauce, the mixture took on a rich flavor. Continuing to beat brought it to a creamy consistency.
Then I whipped heavy cream to soft peaks before gently folding it in. This added lovely body and lightness to the cheesecake layer.
With the addition of apple pie filling, the sweet taste of fall was realized. Evenly distributing the pieces throughout.
Once completely combined, I covered and refrigerated the salad for several hours. This allowed the flavors to develop.
Before serving, I folded in graham cracker pieces for crunch. Their sandy texture proved the perfect contrast.
Finally, a drizzle of extra caramel sauce tied everything together in an indulgent way.
The effort resulted in a truly scrumptious salad that was enjoyed by all! Following the instructions, I’d make it again for sure.