APPLE CARDAMOM CHEESECAKE

APPLE CARDAMOM CHEESECAKE image

Provided by Ellen Bales

Time 1h30m

Number Of Ingredients 16

CRUST:
1 1/2 c graham cracker crumbs
1/3 c butter, melted
1/4 c sugar
3/4 tsp ground cardamom
GLAZED APPLES:
4 medium apples, peeled and cored
1/2 stick butter
1/4 c sugar
3/4 tsp ground cardamom
FILLING:
2 pkg (8 oz.ea.) cream cheese, softened
2/3 c sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp grated lemon peel
4 eggs

Steps:

1. For the crust: Mix all the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Press firmly onto the bottom and 1 inch up the side of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
2. For the glazed apples: Cut the apples into thin slices (about 1/4 inch thick). Add remaining ingredients to apples in a large skillet. Cook on medium heat 5 to 10 minutes or until apples begin to caramelize, turning frequently. Arrange apples atop the crust.
3. For the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar, vanilla and lemon peel. Add eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed after each one, just until blended. Spoon evenly over apples.
4. Bake in a preheated 325-degree oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until center is almost set. Turn oven off and allow cheesecake to cool in oven 1 hour with door slightly ajar. Run small knife around rim of pan to loosen cheesecake. Cool in pan on wire rack.
5. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Store any leftovers in refrigerator.