Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Crisp Cheesecake blends the best parts of two beloved desserts: cheesecake and apple crisp. The creamy, velvety cheesecake filling contrasts beautifully with the spiced apple filling and the buttery, crunchy topping. It’s a cozy, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday meals.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the apple filling:
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the cheesecake:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the crisp topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
Make the apple filling:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are softened. Let the apple mixture cool.
Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust. Layer with half of the apple filling, then repeat with the remaining cheesecake mixture and apples.
Add the crisp topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the cheesecake.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 60 minutes
- Total time: 90 minutes + chilling time
Variations
- Use a different fruit, such as pears or peaches, in place of the apples for a different flavor.
- Add a layer of caramel sauce over the apple filling for a rich, indulgent twist.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the graham cracker crumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To serve, simply slice and enjoy chilled. For best results, let it come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Just allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
Can I freeze Apple Crisp Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I use a different crust for the cheesecake?
Yes, you can use a pre-made cookie crust, shortbread cookies, or even an almond flour crust for a gluten-free option.
Can I make this without the crisp topping?
Yes, you can omit the crisp topping if you prefer a smoother, less crunchy texture, or replace it with a streusel topping.
How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
To avoid cracks, make sure to bake the cheesecake at a low temperature and allow it to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any variety of apple you like, such as Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor.
Can I make individual servings of this cheesecake?
Yes, you can bake this cheesecake in individual ramekins or cupcake pans for smaller portions. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools in the refrigerator.
Is this cheesecake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, with a gluten-free crust and using gluten-free oats, this cheesecake can be made gluten-free.
Can I add nuts to the crisp topping?
Yes, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping for extra crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines two classic favorites into one delicious treat. With its buttery graham cracker crust, spiced apple filling, creamy cheesecake layer, and crunchy topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Make it ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors with family and friends!
Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of apple crisp. Featuring a graham cracker crust, sweet cinnamon apples, a velvety cheesecake layer, and a crunchy oat topping, this indulgent dessert is perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves both cheesecake and apple crisp, offering the best of both worlds in one show-stopping treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes + chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Fall-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the apple filling:
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the cheesecake:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the crisp topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside. - Make the apple filling:
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples are softened. Let the apple mixture cool. - Make the cheesecake filling:
Beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. - Assemble the cheesecake:
Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust. Layer with half of the apple filling, then repeat with the remaining cheesecake mixture and apples. - Add the crisp topping:
In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cheesecake. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set.
Notes
- You can use pears or peaches instead of apples for a different fruit flavor.
- To make the cheesecake gluten-free, substitute the graham cracker crumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
- For added richness, drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the cheesecake mixture.