Apple Cardamom Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients for Apple Cardamom Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• Ground Cardamom
• Butter
• Cooking Apples
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• Vanilla Extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3 large eggs

How to Make Apple Cardamom Cheesecake

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Press firmly into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Prepare the apples: Peel and core 2 medium apples (about 1 pound). Cut into 16 wedges.
4. Caramelize the apples: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine apples, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, and 1 tablespoon butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are softened and caramelized (about 10-15 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
5. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest, beating until combined.
6. Beat in eggs: Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
7. Assemble the cheesecake: Spread the caramelized apples evenly over the crust. Pour the cheesecake filling over the apples.
8. Bake: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but the center is still slightly jiggly. The top should be lightly golden brown.
9. Cool and chill: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Then, let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.