Apple Crisp Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Apple Crisp Cheesecake. This delightful treat combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of apple crisp, making it perfect for cozy family gatherings or a special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting friends for dinner, or just treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It’s as delicious as it is simple to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The blend of smooth cheesecake and spiced apples creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect even for beginner bakers!
• Perfect for Sharing: With enough servings to feed a crowd, it’s an ideal dessert for parties or family gatherings.
• Flexible Timing: You can prepare this cheesecake ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, making your day stress-free.
• Beautiful Presentation: Topped with a crunchy oatmeal crumble and drizzled with salted caramel, this cheesecake looks as good as it tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Apple Crisp Cheesecake is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust

• 3 cups graham crumbs
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)

For the Apples

• 2 large apples (I recommend Granny Smith or Gala)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

For the Oatmeal Crumble

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese (680 grams) (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml) (room temperature)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)

Other

• boiling water (for the water bath)
• salted caramel sauce

Variations

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is wonderfully versatile! Here are some fun ways to give it your unique twist:

• Try Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a fruity variation that suits your taste.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble for extra crunch and flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: A dash of nutmeg or ginger can add an exciting twist to the flavor profile.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap graham crumbs and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives to enjoy this dessert without worry.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350F (180C or 160C on a fan-forced oven). To ensure our cheesecake cooks evenly and doesn’t leak, wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan in tin foil, covering both the bottom and sides well. Lightly grease the pan with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial because no one wants soggy crust!

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and mix until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This crust will provide a sturdy base for our creamy filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

Peel and slice your apples thinly. In another bowl, toss them with brown sugar and cinnamon until they’re fully coated. Set them aside while we prepare the crumble.

Step 4: Mix Up the Oatmeal Crumble

In yet another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, quick oats, and melted butter until crumbly. This will add that delicious crunchy layer on top of our cheesecake.

Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and brown sugar while continuing to mix. Incorporate cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla extract, sour cream, and eggs one at a time. Scrape down sides as needed! Mixing thoroughly ensures that every bite will be rich and creamy.

Step 6: Assemble Everything

Pour half of your cheesecake filling over the crust in your springform pan. Layer on your spiced apples evenly before adding the remaining cheesecake filling on top. Finally, sprinkle your oatmeal crumble across the top.

Step 7: Bake

Place your springform pan inside a larger roasting pan filled with boiling water up to halfway up the sides of your springform pan—this water bath helps bake everything gently for that perfect texture! Bake in preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once baked, turn off the oven and crack open its door slightly to let out steam while cooling down slowly—this helps prevent cracks. After an hour at room temperature, refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight if possible! When ready to serve, drizzle each slice with salted caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

Enjoy every creamy bite of this Apple Crisp Cheesecake—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Creating the perfect apple crisp cheesecake is easier than you might think, and these tips will help ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs to room temperature helps them blend seamlessly, resulting in a smoother filling without lumps.

• Don’t skip the water bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath prevents the top from cracking and ensures even cooking. The moisture helps maintain a creamy texture throughout.

• Let it cool slowly: After baking, turning off the oven and leaving the cheesecake inside for an hour allows it to set gently and reduces the chance of cracks forming on the surface.

• Chill before serving: Allowing your cheesecake to rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight) enhances its flavor and makes slicing easier. Plus, it’s deliciously cool!

• Experiment with apples: Different apple varieties can change the flavor profile of your cheesecake. Try mixing Granny Smith and Gala for a balance of tartness and sweetness!

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Presenting your apple crisp cheesecake beautifully can turn a simple dessert into an impressive centerpiece. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
• Cinnamon dust: A light sprinkle of cinnamon over the top gives a warm aroma and enhances that cozy fall feeling.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts make for a delightful crunch and add extra flavor contrast to the creamy texture.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy counterpart to your apple crisp cheesecake, balancing flavors perfectly.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice brings an indulgent sweetness that pairs wonderfully with apple and cinnamon.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after each rich bite of cheesecake, offering a burst of freshness.
• Coffee or chai tea: Serving your dessert alongside a warm beverage like coffee or spiced chai enhances its comforting qualities, making for an inviting dessert experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your apple crisp cheesecake will not only taste amazing but also look stunning at any gathering! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Make sure to keep the cheesecake covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label and date your containers!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight.
• If you prefer a warm slice, heat it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Apple Crisp Cheesecake.

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Gala are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with others like Honeycrisp or Fuji for different flavor profiles.

How can I make my Apple Crisp Cheesecake even creamier?

For an extra creamy texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid overmixing after adding eggs to maintain that smooth consistency.

What toppings pair well with Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

You can enhance your cheesecake with whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of salted caramel for an indulgent touch!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience combining creamy cheesecake with warm cinnamon apples and a crunchy topping. It brings the best of fall flavors right to your table! I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!