For the Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs – Creates a buttery, lightly sweet base with a classic cheesecake flavor.
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a warm molasses flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Gives the crust a cozy apple-pie-inspired flavor.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crumbs together and creates a rich, buttery texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates the smooth, rich, and creamy cheesecake layer.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling without overpowering the apples.
• ½ cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• 2 large eggs – Helps the cheesecake filling set while keeping it rich and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances the rich filling.

For the Apple Layer

• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced – Choose firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady for good texture.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Gives the apples classic warm spice.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds extra depth and warmth.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps absorb some of the apple juices as they bake.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Helps keep the apples fresh and adds brightness.

For the Crumble Topping

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure for the crumble.
• ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats – Adds hearty texture and a delicious rustic crunch.
• ½ cup packed brown sugar – Gives the topping sweetness and caramelized flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Complements the spiced apple layer.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed – Creates rich, buttery crumbs that become golden during baking.

For the Caramel Topping

• ½ cup caramel sauce – Adds a rich, buttery sweetness and creates the signature caramel apple finish.

You can use homemade or good-quality store-bought caramel sauce.