Caramel Apple Cheesecake Salad
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.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Base:
- 16 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-1½ cup caramel sauce.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
For the Filling:
- 21 oz apple pie filling
- 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling.
- Crushed graham crackers or crushed nuts for added crunch.
Instructions
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures it blends smoothly and prevents lumps.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
Incorporate the Caramel Sauce:
- Gradually add the caramel sauce to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until well combined and the mixture is rich and creamy.
Whip the Heavy Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks using an electric mixer. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy cheesecake texture.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Avoid overmixing to maintain the fluffy texture.
Add the Apple Pie Filling:
- Fold the apple pie filling into the cheesecake mixture, ensuring the apple pieces are evenly distributed.
Refrigerate the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Assemble and Serve:
- If using a graham cracker crust as a base, spread the chilled mixture evenly over the crust. Alternatively, gently fold in broken graham cracker pieces just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top and garnish with crushed graham crackers or nuts if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth mixture.
Chill for Flavor: Refrigerating the mixture allows the flavors to develop and enhances the overall taste.
Use Homemade Caramel Sauce: If time permits, make your own caramel sauce for a richer, fresher flavor.
Fold Gently: Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream when folding it into the cream cheese mixture.