Apple Crumble Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of fall with a creamy, dreamy texture, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is just the thing! Imagine a crunchy biscoff crust holding layers of spiced cheesecake and tender apples, all topped with buttery streusel crumble. It’s a delightful twist on classic cheesecake, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight treats.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings everyone together. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, holiday feast, or simply an afternoon at home, this cheesecake is sure to please. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even on busy days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert without fuss.
• Family favorite: The combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and let it chill in the fridge—perfect for stress-free entertaining!
• Delicious flavor: The blend of sweet apples and warm spices will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is part of the fun! They are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust

• 350 g Lotus biscoff cookies
• 150 g unsalted butter (melted)

For the Streusel Topping

• 55 g unsalted butter (melted)
• 50 g all-purpose flour
• 50 g brown sugar
• 20 g rolled oats

For the Apple Filling

• 3 tart apples (peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/8 thick slices)
• 50 g brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 690 g cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 75 g granulated sugar
• 100 g Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Change the fruit: Swap out apples for pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel for added crunch.
• Mix in chocolate: Add some chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer for a delicious twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and substitute with almond flour in the streusel.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Crush those biscoff cookies until they resemble fine crumbs. This will create a flavorful base that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake. Mix them with melted butter until well combined, then press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake it just long enough to set—about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While your crust cools, it’s time to prepare those lovely apples! Toss them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. This step not only enhances their natural sweetness but also helps thicken any juices released during baking. Set them aside while we move on to our cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add Greek yogurt for creaminess and vanilla extract for flavor. Don’t forget those warm spices—cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—for that cozy feel! Finally, mix in your eggs one at a time until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cheesecake

Pour half of your cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust followed by half of your apple filling. Repeat with the remaining mixture and top with leftover apples. This layering creates beautiful swirls as it bakes!

Step 5: Bake

Bake your cheesecake in that preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes until set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. Let it cool completely before adding your streusel topping—a mix of melted butter, flour, brown sugar, and oats baked until golden.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Once cooled, refrigerate your Apple Crumble Cheesecake for at least four hours (or overnight if you can resist!). When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and watch everyone enjoy every bite!

And there you have it—an inviting dessert that’s sure to be cherished by all who taste it!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Creating the perfect apple crumble cheesecake can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps and an uneven texture in your cheesecake.

• Don’t rush the cooling process: After baking, allow your cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking on the surface, leading to a beautiful presentation.

• Choose the right apples: For this recipe, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. Their natural acidity complements the richness of the cheesecake and adds a wonderful flavor contrast.

• Make it ahead of time: Cheesecakes often taste better after they’ve had time to chill in the fridge. Prepare this dessert a day in advance to allow all those flavors to meld beautifully!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves can bring an extra layer of warmth and depth to your cheesecake.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Presenting your apple crumble cheesecake beautifully will make it that much more enticing! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light and airy feel that contrasts nicely with the rich cheesecake.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce enhances sweetness and provides an appealing visual element.
• Fresh mint leaves: Adding a few sprigs of fresh mint not only brightens up the plate but also adds a refreshing flavor that complements the apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your cheesecake creates a classic pairing. The cold, creamy texture balances out the warmth of the baked apples.
• Fruit salad: A simple fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brings freshness and lightness to the meal. It’s especially nice for cutting through the richness of the cheesecake!
• Coffee or tea: Serving coffee or herbal tea as a beverage option complements the dessert perfectly, enhancing its flavors while providing a comforting finish to your meal.
• Cheese platter: For those who enjoy contrasting flavors, consider serving a small cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The savory notes pair surprisingly well with sweet desserts!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful apple crumble cheesecake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This apple crumble cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making it a convenient dessert option for gatherings or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.
• Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best flavor and texture, consume within the first three days.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the cheesecake into slices after it has cooled completely.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• For quick warming, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat on low power for 15-30 seconds.
• Enjoy chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor!

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dessert, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the Apple Crumble Cheesecake.

Can I use different types of apples for the Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully, you can also experiment with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just adjust the sugar accordingly based on your preference.

How do I prevent my Apple Crumble Cheesecake from cracking?

To minimize cracking, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, bake your cheesecake in a water bath by wrapping the springform pan in foil and placing it in a larger pan filled with water. This helps maintain even heat during baking.

Can I make this Apple Crumble Cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the biscoff cookies with gluten-free cookies and use a gluten-free flour blend for the streusel topping. You’ll still enjoy all those delicious flavors without gluten!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Apple Crumble Cheesecake as much as I do! It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it yourself, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want to share your experiences!