Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of two classic desserts. This dessert combines the creamy, rich texture of cheesecake with the comforting warmth of a cinnamon-spiced apple crumble topping. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a sweet indulgence, this cheesecake will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Combines two desserts into one delicious treat.
- Perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and spiced flavors.
- A crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.
- Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings or crusts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Eggs
- Graham cracker crust
- Fresh apples
- Cinnamon
- Brown sugar
- Rolled oats
- Butter
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: Press the graham cracker crust into a springform pan and chill.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time and mix until incorporated. Pour the mixture over the crust.
- Prepare the Apple Topping: Toss peeled and sliced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar, then spread evenly over the cheesecake filling.
- Add the Crumble Topping: Mix oats, butter, brown sugar, and flour to create a crumble. Sprinkle it over the apples.
- Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake until the cheesecake is set and the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating for several hours or overnight.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Chill Time: 4 hours
Variations
- Crust Alternatives: Swap graham crackers for digestive biscuits, ginger snaps, or a shortbread base.
- Apple Options: Use your favorite apple variety, such as Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free crust.
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for extra crunch.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor with nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: While this cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, you can gently warm a slice in the microwave for a softer texture.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead since it needs time to chill in the fridge.
2. What apples work best for this recipe?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are ideal due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
3. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely, using a pre-made crust can save time without compromising flavor.
4. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Use a water bath while baking and avoid overmixing the batter to minimize cracks.
5. Can I substitute the cream cheese?
For a lighter option, you can use Neufchรขtel cheese, but the texture may differ slightly.
6. Whatโs the best way to slice cheesecake?
Use a hot knife, wiping it clean between slices, for smooth and even cuts.
7. Can I omit the crumble topping?
Yes, you can skip the crumble or replace it with a simple caramel drizzle.
8. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The center should jiggle slightly while the edges are set. It will firm up as it cools.
9. Can I use canned apples instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned apple pie filling can be used as a shortcut, but fresh apples provide better texture and flavor.
10. Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake?
Yes, chilling allows the cheesecake to set properly, enhancing its texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Apple Crumble Cheesecake is an irresistible dessert that brings together creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crunchy crumble topping. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a fan of apple desserts, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection. With its versatile variations and ease of preparation, it’s a must-try treat for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintApple Crumble Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 7 hours (including cooling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the comforting flavors of apple crumble. This dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake filling, spiced apple topping, and a crunchy crumble, all drizzled with caramel sauce.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 ounces (three 8-ounce packages) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Apple Topping:
- 3 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crumble Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Optional for Serving:
- Salted caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and about 1ยฝ inches up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a glass to help press it evenly.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 325ยฐF (160ยฐC).
- Prepare the Apple Topping:
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated. Set aside.
- Prepare the Crumble Topping:
- In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and salt. Using your fingers or a fork, work in the softened butter until the mixture forms small crumbs. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and brown sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Finally, add the heavy cream and mix until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Gently arrange the apple slices over the cheesecake filling. It’s best to place them carefully to prevent them from sinking too much.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake:
- Wrap the springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center wobbles slightly when gently shaken.
- Cool:
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and foil, then let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set fully.
- Serve:
- Before serving, drizzle the cheesecake with salted caramel sauce if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Choosing Apples:ย Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are excellent choices for baking due to their firm texture and balanced sweetness.
- Preventing Cracks:ย Using a water bath helps maintain a consistent baking temperature and adds moisture to the oven, reducing the risk of cracks in your cheesecake.
- Storage:ย Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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