Apple Crisp Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, let me introduce you to my beloved Apple Crisp Cheesecake. This delightful treat combines the creamy goodness of vanilla cheesecake with the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oatmeal crumble. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a little comfort or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!

What makes this Apple Crisp Cheesecake so special is its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The thick graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the cheesecake is sinfully creamy. Topping it off with a drizzle of salted caramel elevates it to pure bliss. You won’t just be serving dessert; you’ll be creating memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, making this cheesecake is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone, from kids to grandparents, will enjoy this delicious twist on two classic desserts.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining—just add the caramel before serving!
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet apples keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make this scrumptious Apple Crisp Cheesecake! These items are easy to find and come together beautifully to create layers of flavor.

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 Apple Filling

• 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)

Additional

• Boiling water (for the water bath)
• Salted caramel sauce

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your version of Apple Crisp Cheesecake.

• Try Different Apples: Use your favorite variety, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for extra crunch.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute graham crumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives; it tastes just as good!
• Switch Up the Spice: Add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly and sets perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Springform Pan

Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan in tin foil. Cover both the bottom and sides thoroughly—this prevents any water from leaking in during baking. Lightly grease the inside with non-stick cooking spray to make sure your cheesecake comes out easily later.

Step 3: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and mix until everything is moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan; this will form a solid base that holds up against all those dreamy layers!

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your chosen apples into thin wedges. In another bowl, toss them with brown sugar and cinnamon so they’re coated beautifully. Set aside to let those flavors mingle while you work on the next steps.

Step 5: Create the Oatmeal Crumble

In yet another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, quick oats, and melted butter until crumbly. This topping will bring an irresistible crunch to your cheesecake!

Step 6: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and brown sugar while mixing until creamy. Then mix in cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla extract, sour cream, and eggs one at a time—this creates that velvety texture we love in cheesecakes!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cheesecake

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust in your springform pan. Layer half of the spiced apple filling on top, then pour in remaining cheesecake filling before topping with leftover apples and crumble mixture.

Step 8: Bake in Water Bath

Place your springform pan into a larger roasting pan filled halfway up with boiling water—this water bath keeps your cheesecake moist while baking. Bake for about 55 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 9: Cool Down and Serve

Once baked, turn off your oven and crack open its door slightly—let your cheesecake cool inside for about an hour before transferring it to chill completely in the fridge for at least four hours. When ready to serve, drizzle with salted caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness!

And there you have it! A delightful journey through making an incredible Apple Crisp Cheesecake that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Making apple crisp cheesecake can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few helpful tips up your sleeve!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter, ensuring your cheesecake is creamy and avoids lumps.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air into the batter, leading to cracks during baking. A gentle hand will yield a perfect texture.
• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or Gala for a balanced flavor. Their acidity complements the sweetness of the cheesecake and adds that lovely cinnamon apple flavor.
• Use a Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath prevents it from drying out and promotes even cooking. It also helps prevent unsightly cracks on the surface, giving you that flawless finish.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing your cheesecake to chill overnight enhances its flavor and texture. The longer it sits, the more deliciously firm it becomes, making it easier to slice.

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Presenting your apple crisp cheesecake beautifully can make all the difference at gatherings or family dinners. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving style!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and fluffy touch that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the cheesecake.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Fresh Apple Slices: Thinly sliced apples arranged attractively on top not only enhance presentation but also reinforce those delicious apple flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm spices in the cheesecake while enhancing its overall richness.
• Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling extra salted caramel sauce over each slice adds an indulgent sweetness that complements both the apples and cheesecake.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving warm coffee or herbal tea alongside your dessert creates a comforting pairing that warms hearts and souls.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits brings a refreshing balance to the richness of the cheesecake, making for a well-rounded dessert offering.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with this delectable apple crisp cheesecake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this Apple Crisp Cheesecake is that it can easily be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for gatherings or weeknight treats. With proper storage, you can savor each slice for days to come!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• To prevent freezer burn, ensure no air is trapped inside the wrapping.

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For a warm dessert experience, preheat your oven to 350F (180C) and bake slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for an extra treat!

FAQs

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

Can I make Apple Crisp Cheesecake without sour cream?

Yes! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

What makes Apple Crisp Cheesecake special?

The combination of creamy vanilla cheesecake, spiced apples, and an oatmeal crumble creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that truly elevates it above regular cheesecakes.

How can I achieve the perfect apple texture in my cheesecake?

To ensure tender yet firm apples in your Apple Crisp Cheesecake, opt for firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Gala. Cook them slightly before adding to the filling to soften while preserving their shape.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Certainly! You can experiment with pears or mixed berries to create variations of this cheesecake while maintaining its creamy base.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Crisp Cheesecake brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! Its rich layers and comforting flavors make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at home or sharing it with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll find it as delightful as I do. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to try out this recipe—you won’t regret it!