Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Gather your ingredients so that you have everything close at hand on the counter or table. Spray the bottom and sides of a springform pan with baking spray.
Prepare the Ingredients
Place graham crackers into a plastic bag and crush using a rolling pin. (Optionally, you may place the crackers in the bowl of a food processor and mix until finely ground.)
Peel, core, and dice the apples into small tidbits. Place in a bowl and mix with 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Set aside until ready to use.
Place butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat until melted, about 20-30 seconds.
Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, finely chopped pecans. Stir to mix.
Pour in the melted butter and mix until all is moistened.
Press the crumbs onto the bottom of a lightly greased springform pan, making sure to spread to the edges. Press firmly.
Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Allow to cool while you work on the rest of the recipe.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add large eggs, one at a time, beating on low just until combined. Stir in vanilla extract.
Pour over crust.
Prepare the Apple Topping
In a small bowl, sprinkle the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon over the prepared apple tidbits. Stir to combine.
Spoon the apple mixture over the cheesecake filling.
Bake in preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen. Drizzle with 4 tablespoons caramel topping.
Cool for 1 hour. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
When ready to serve, remove sides of springform pan. Slice into triangular pieces. Just before serving, garnish with whipped cream and more caramel sauce, if desired.
You may store cheesecake for up to a week in the refrigerator. Serves 12.
Notes
*Unless otherwise indicated, all butter used on this recipe site is salted.