As the crisp autumn air rolls in, I’m reminded of cozy kitchens filled with sweet aromas, especially the intoxicating scent of apples and warm spices. This Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines the best of two beloved desserts into a single, mouthwatering treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich, creamy filling, it’s not just a cheesecake; it’s also a comforting nod to the classic apple pie. The two irresistible perks? It’s quick to prepare and makes for an unforgettable centerpiece at fall gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just looking to impress your loved ones, I assure you, this dessert will turn any occasion into a celebration. What delightful toppings or variations will you choose to personalize your slice?
Why is this Apple Crumble Cheesecake special?
Decadent Fusion: Apple Crumble Cheesecake wonderfully combines the silky richness of cheesecake with the warmth of apple pie, creating a unique dessert that stands out.
Quick Preparation: Effortless to make, this cheesecake comes together quickly, saving you time while delivering maximum flavor.
Versatile Flavors: Personalize your treat by swapping apples for pears or trying Biscoff cookies as the crust. The options are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impressive and beautiful, this cheesecake is sure to be the star of any gathering, leaving your guests asking for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for fall gatherings, this dessert brings cozy vibes to any table, making it a seasonal favorite.
If you love apple desserts, don’t miss the chance to explore other sweet delights like our delicious Apple Crumb Cake or Carrot Apple Salad for more inspiration!
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Crust
- Graham Crackers – Base for the crust that provides crunch and flavor; substitute with digestive biscuits if needed.
- Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust together and adds richness; use unsalted for better flavor control.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust and cheesecake filling; you can use caster sugar as a substitute.
- Cinnamon – Provides warm spice notes; no direct substitution needed; adjust to taste.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream Cheese – Primary ingredient for a smooth and creamy filling; use full-fat cream cheese for best results.
- Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and enhances creaminess; can be substituted with Greek yogurt.
- Eggs – Bind the filling and contribute to its structure; ensure eggs are at room temperature before use.
- Cornstarch – Stabilizes the cheesecake, giving it a smooth texture; flour can be used as an alternative in some cases.
For the Apple Filling
- Apples – Core component of the filling; use a mix of tart (e.g., Granny Smith) and sweet (e.g., Fuji) apples for depth of flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a deep caramel flavor to the apple filling; adjust to your sweetness preference.
- Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon in the apple filling; omit if sensitive to strong spices.
- Lemon Juice – Balances sweetness and prevents apple browning; fresh lemon juice is preferred.
For the Crumble Topping
- Rolled Oats – Contributes texture to the crumble topping; quick oats can be used for a finer crumble.
- Flour – Helps bind the crumble topping; use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free alternative as needed.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the crumble; can be adjusted to taste.
- Cinnamon – Enhances flavor in the crumble; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and binds the crumble mixture; melted butter works best.
Now you have everything you need to create this unforgettable Apple Crumble Cheesecake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare Apple Filling
Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into thin wedges. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. Stir in a cornstarch slurry and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter and mix until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 10-inch springform pan. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 7-8 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Gently blend in 1 cup of sour cream, then add 3 lightly beaten eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Finally, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and continue mixing until the filling is free of lumps.
Step 4: Make Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter over the mixture and use your fingers to combine until crumbly. This will create a delightful crunch on top of your Apple Crumble Cheesecake.
Step 5: Assemble Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Next, evenly spread the cooled apple filling on top. Gently pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apples, ensuring an even layer. Finally, sprinkle the crumble topping generously until it covers the cheesecake filling completely.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the assembled cheesecake in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center retains a slight jiggle. Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1-2 hours before refrigerating. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks in your Apple Crumble Cheesecake.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
After cooling, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 5 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, carefully remove it from the springform pan, slice, and enjoy the creamy texture paired with the warm apple and crunchy crumble topping.
Storage Tips for Apple Crumble Cheesecake
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Fridge: Store your Apple Crumble Cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors.
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Freezer: If you’d like to enjoy your cheesecake later, freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container for extra protection against freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy your cheesecake warm, remove it from the freezer and thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold, as it is also delicious!
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Airtight Container: Always use an airtight container for storage, especially if freezing, to maintain the rich texture and flavor of the cheesecake while preventing unwanted moisture.
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful cheesecake to your taste!
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Pear Swap: Replace apples with ripe pears for a luscious twist that adds a subtle sweetness and unique flavor.
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Biscoff Crust: Use crushed Biscoff cookies in place of graham crackers for an aromatic, caramel-like flavor that perfectly complements the cheesecake.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for a delightful texture boost and nutty flavor.
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Salted Caramel Drizzle: Top your cheesecake with a luscious salted caramel sauce for an indulgent finish that provides a sweet and salty contrast.
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Citrus Glaze: A light lemon or orange glaze can be drizzled on top for a refreshing citrus kick, brightening the rich flavors of the cheesecake.
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Spice it Up: For warmth and depth, increase the nutmeg, or add ginger and allspice to the apple filling, giving a cozy autumn vibe.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swirl melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling before baking for a rich, decadent chocolate flavor layered with apple goodness.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour in the crumble with a gluten-free blend to create a deliciously crumbly topping that everyone can enjoy.
If you want to explore more delightful apple-inspired delights, don’t forget to check out our Apple Brownies Deliciously or the scrumptious Oatmeal Apple Breakfast recipes!
Expert Tips for Apple Crumble Cheesecake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling for your Apple Crumble Cheesecake.
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Don’t Overmix Eggs: When adding eggs to the cheesecake mixture, mix just until incorporated. Overbeating can introduce air, leading to cracks during baking.
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Cool Apple Filling Completely: Be sure the apple filling is completely cooled before adding it to your cheesecake layers. This prevents the cheesecake from cracking due to sudden temperature changes.
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Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight. Allowing it to rest enhances the melding of flavors and ensures a perfect slice.
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Use a Water Bath: To prevent cracks, consider using a water bath while baking. Place the cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water for a gentle cooking process.
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Baking Temperature Matters: Bake your Apple Crumble Cheesecake at a lower temperature (300°F) for even cooking. This helps it to set properly without overcooking the edges.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Crumble Cheesecake components are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, cool the apple filling completely before refrigerating; this prevents excess moisture from affecting the crust’s texture. The cheesecake batter can also be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just give it a gentle stir before assembly. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the cheesecake with the prepared components, bake it as directed, and chill for at least 5 hours or overnight for the best flavor. Enjoy the time-saving benefits and a delicious dessert!
What to Serve with Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Imagine a table adorned with comforting flavors, perfect for sharing sweet moments with loved ones.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy coolness, enhancing the warmth of the cheesecake. Scoop generously for a delightful experience with every bite.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzled on top or served on the side, this rich sauce adds a luscious sweetness that mirrors the caramel notes in the apple filling.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a great contrast to the dense cheesecake texture, making each slice feel even more indulgent.
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Spiced Cider: Warm or chilled, spiced apple cider brings out the cozy fall flavors of the cheesecake while adding a refreshing twist to the meal.
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Roasted Nuts: Offering a crunchy texture, roasted almonds or pecans can be sprinkled over the top for added richness, complementing both the apple and crumble elements.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite perfectly harmonizes with the warm spices in the cheesecake, creating a nostalgic vibe for any autumn gathering.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cheesecake. Consider adding tart berries or citrus for a vibrant contrast.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a hint of melted chocolate drizzled on top adds an unexpected yet delightful layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with apple and spice.
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What apples are best for this cheesecake?
For the most flavorful apple filling, I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji. This combination provides a delightful balance of flavors that elevates your cheesecake beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp for added sweetness!
How do I store leftover Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Store your cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. It’s always the best idea to make sure it’s well-wrapped and protected.
Can I freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cheesecake for up to 2 months. First, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If you prefer it warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Cracks can be a common issue, but don’t worry! To prevent this, make sure to cool your apple filling completely before layering it into the cheesecake. Additionally, be gentle when mixing the eggs into the batter—mix just until incorporated to avoid introducing too much air. If cracking does occur, you can always cover up with the crumble topping after baking!
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this Apple Crumble Cheesecake to be gluten-free! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and ensure that your all-purpose flour is a suitable gluten-free blend for the crumble topping. This way, everyone can indulge in this tasty dessert!
How long should I chill the cheesecake before serving?
For the best taste and texture, it’s ideal to chill the cheesecake for at least 5 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to meld and results in a perfectly creamy slice. Enjoy a slice chilled for a refreshing dessert experience!
Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake for Cozy Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the apple filling by peeling, coring, and slicing apples. Melt butter and cook with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and nutmeg for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Make the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon with melted butter. Press into a springform pan and bake at 350°F for 7-8 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth. Blend in sour cream and eggs, followed by cornstarch until lumps disappear.
- For the crumble topping, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then combine with melted butter until crumbly.
- Assemble the cheesecake by pouring half the filling into the crust, adding apple filling, and then remaining cheesecake batter. Top with crumble.
- Bake at 300°F for about 60 minutes until edges are set. Let it cool in the oven for 1-2 hours.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 5 hours or overnight before serving.
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