Apple Crisp Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that embodies the warmth of home and the joy of gatherings, then you’ve landed in the right place! This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is my absolute favorite fall treat. It combines a luscious vanilla cheesecake with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oatmeal topping. Just thinking about it makes me feel all cozy inside! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, bringing comfort and smiles to everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility—whether you’re serving friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dessert feels like a warm hug. Plus, who can resist that drizzling salted caramel on top? Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously creamy: The smooth vanilla cheesecake pairs perfectly with spiced apples for a flavor explosion.
• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this beauty ready in no time!
• Family favorite: This dessert brings everyone together, making it ideal for sharing with loved ones.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and simply chill until it’s time to serve.
• Festive flair: Perfect for holidays or any gathering where you want to impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You probably already have many of them in your pantry. Here’s what you need to create this delightful Apple Crisp Cheesecake:

For the Crust and Topping

• 3 cups graham crumbs
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)
• 2 large apples (I recommend Granny Smith or Gala)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 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 Ingredients

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

Variations

One of the best parts about this Apple Crisp Cheesecake is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Change up the fruit: Swap out the apples for pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans to give your crumble an extra crunch.
• Flavor twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten up the apple filling.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut yogurt instead of sour cream.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

First things first—let’s get that delicious crust ready! Preheat your oven to 350F (180C). Wrap a 9-inch springform pan tightly in tin foil to prevent any water from seeping in during baking. Lightly grease it with non-stick cooking spray. Combine graham crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Then mix in melted butter until everything is well coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan—it will be your sturdy base!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Next up, we’re going to make those apples shine! Peel and slice your apples into thin pieces. In another bowl, toss them with brown sugar and cinnamon until they’re completely coated. This step is essential because it enhances their sweetness and flavor while baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Oatmeal Topping

In yet another bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, quick oats, and melted butter for that crisp topping. This crumbly mixture adds texture and complements our creamy cheesecake beautifully.

Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

Now comes the star of our show: the cheesecake filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat together room-temperature cream cheese and sugars until smooth and creamy. Add in the cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla extract, sour cream, and eggs one at a time. Mixing each element thoroughly ensures that every bite is deliciously rich!

Step 5: Assemble Your Cheesecake

Time to layer everything together! Pour half of your cheesecake filling over the crust first. Then add half of your spiced apple mixture on top before pouring on the remaining cheesecake filling. Top it off with the rest of those beautiful apples followed by the oatmeal topping for that crispy finish.

Step 6: Bake in a Water Bath

To bake your cheesecake perfectly without cracks, we’ll use a water bath. Place your springform pan inside a larger baking dish filled halfway with boiling water before placing it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 55 minutes or until just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, turn off your oven but leave the door cracked open while letting it cool gradually inside. This helps avoid sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks. After cooling completely at room temperature, refrigerate for at least four hours—or overnight if you can wait! Serve chilled with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top for an extra special touch.

And there you have it—a slice of heaven waiting to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Creating the perfect apple crisp cheesecake is a delightful journey, and these tips will help you make it even more scrumptious!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or Gala. Their natural acidity balances the sweetness of the cheesecake beautifully.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and prevents lumps in your cheesecake.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake as it bakes.

• Use a Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps regulate the temperature and keeps it moist. This method reduces the chances of cracks forming on the surface.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow your cheesecake to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving. This helps improve the texture and enhances the flavors.

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Presenting your apple crisp cheesecake beautifully can elevate any gathering. Here are some suggestions to make this dessert shine!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich cheesecake.
• Cinnamon Dust: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top enhances the flavors and gives your dessert an appealing finish.
• Caramel Drizzle: A generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce not only adds sweetness but also creates an eye-catching presentation.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream with warm apple crisp cheesecake creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider complements the apple flavor and adds a refreshing element to your dessert experience.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea rounds out the meal perfectly, providing a cozy finish to your taste adventure.
• Mixed Berries: A small bowl of fresh mixed berries adds brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the cheesecake.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with your delicious apple crisp cheesecake! Enjoy every creamy, cinnamon-infused bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for future gatherings or cozy nights in. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing as outlined below.

Freezing

• Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To serve warm, slice the cheesecake and microwave each piece for about 15-20 seconds until just warmed through.
• Avoid reheating more than necessary, as this can change the texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about this delicious dessert!

What makes Apple Crisp Cheesecake special?

Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines the creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the sweet, spiced flavors of apple crisp. The contrast between the rich cheesecake and crunchy topping creates a delightful experience that’s perfect for fall gatherings.

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Gala apples are great choices for their balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just remember that different apples may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when my Apple Crisp Cheesecake is done?

Your cheesecake should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a little wobbly!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if needed.

What is the best way to serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

Serve slices chilled or at room temperature, topped with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is not only a showstopper but also a heartwarming treat that brings comfort with every bite. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family during those cozy fall evenings. Happy baking!