Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of warm cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, transporting me to a cozy autumn afternoon. That’s when I decided to create my indulgent Apple Crumble Cheesecake, a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced apple pie filling. This recipe not only whips up fairly quickly, but it also offers a fantastic crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends. The buttery crumble topping adds the perfect crunch, making each bite an irresistible treat. Plus, with options for a gluten-free crust or alternative fruits, there’s something for everyone. Ready to dive into this delicious adventure? Let’s explore how to make your own heavenly Apple Crumble Cheesecake! Why is Apple Crumble Cheesecake a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: The fusion of smooth cheesecake and spiced apple filling creates a taste explosion that’s both comforting and delightful. Quick and Simple: With streamlined steps and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels. Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the crust or toppings, like using nuts in the crumble or substituting apples with pears. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a special occasion or just a family dinner, this dessert is guaranteed to impress! Perfect Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for that gourmet touch. Don’t miss out on trying our Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge for another delicious twist! Apple Crumble Cheesecake Ingredients Explore the delightful components of this dessert! For the Crust • Graham Crackers – Base of the crust, providing structure and sweetness; substitute with digestive biscuits if needed. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust and filling; no substitutes recommended for consistent sweetness. • Melted Butter – Binds the crumbs together; use unsalted for better flavor control. For the Cheesecake Filling • Cream Cheese – Main ingredient for a smooth filling; full-fat and at room temperature is key. • Eggs – Provide structure; ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation. • Cornstarch – Thickens the mixture to prevent cracks; can substitute with flour if necessary. • Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; consider vanilla bean paste for a gourmet touch. • Cinnamon and Nutmeg – Spice duo that complements the apples, enhancing the flavor profile. • Sour Cream – Adds creaminess; full-fat provides the best texture. For the Apple Filling • Apples – The star of the dish; firm varieties like Granny Smith work best, but pears can be substituted for variety. • Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste. • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the filling; opt for unsalted for a balanced flavor. • Lemon Juice – Balances sweetness; fresh juice is recommended for the best taste. • Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors throughout the dessert. For the Topping • Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to the crumble topping, enhancing its texture; ensure it’s melted. • Extra Crumble (Optional) – Consider adding chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor! This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is loaded with delicious layers that make it a true showstopper at any gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Crumble Cheesecake Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling Peel, core, and slice about 3-4 firm apples, preferably Granny Smith, for a tart flavor. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced apples with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened, about 10 minutes. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture to thicken. Set aside to cool. Step 2: Make the Crust Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a food processor, pulse about 1 ½ cups of graham crackers into fine crumbs, then mix them in a bowl with ¼ cup granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Add ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and blend until the mixture is crumbly. Press this crust firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 7-8 minutes until slightly golden, then let it cool completely. Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling Lower the oven temperature to 280°F (140°C). In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 16 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese and ¾ cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until combined. Add ½ cup of sour cream and beat until just blended. Incorporate 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing gently, followed by 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake Pour half of the creamy cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Layer the prepared apple filling over this cheesecake layer, distributing it evenly. Gently spoon the remaining cheesecake batter atop the apple filling and smooth it out. Finally, sprinkle your crumble topping over the entire surface for that delightful crunch in the Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Step 5: Bake Carefully place the assembled cheesecake in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. To prevent cracking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1-2 hours, allowing it to cool gradually. Step 6: Chill After cooling, wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or ideally overnight. This will help the flavors meld together and achieve a perfect, smooth texture. When ready to serve, remove from the springform pan and consider topping with caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch. What to Serve with Apple Crumble Cheesecake This rich and creamy dessert pairs beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing with warm desserts; its creaminess complements the cheesecake’s texture perfectly. Whipped Cream: A light, airy addition that balances the indulgence of the cheesecake and enhances sweetness. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the top for extra sweetness and a gooey texture that harmonizes with spiced apples. Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake. Their vibrant color adds visual appeal, too! Chocolate Shavings: For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top; chocolate and apple create a unique flavor combo. Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey imparts subtle sweetness and a floral note, elevating the flavors in your cheesecake. Hot Tea or Coffee: A warm beverage complements dessert time and helps cleanse the palate between each rich bite. Nutty Crumble Topping: Add crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans to the top for additional crunch and flavor contrast. Cinnamon Hot Apple Cider: Serve alongside for a nostalgic and cozy pairing that celebrates the flavor of apples in every sip. How to Store and Freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake Fridge: Store your Apple Crumble Cheesecake wrapped tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake without any toppings for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped in plastic and foil to avoid freezer burn. Thawing: To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This helps retain the creamy texture while maintaining the delightful flavors. Reheating: If you prefer it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until just warmed through, but avoid overheating to keep the texture creamy. Expert Tips for Apple Crumble Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter, preventing lumps in your Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine your ingredients to prevent incorporating too much air, which can create cracks in your cheesecake during baking. Oven Temperature Control: Avoid opening the oven door too quickly to maintain a stable baking environment; temperature fluctuations can cause your cheesecake to crack. Cooling Technique: Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1-2 hours to prevent sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracks. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to personalize your Apple Crumble Cheesecake by trying different extracts or spices, like almond or ginger, for unique flavor twists. Make Ahead Options This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the apple filling and cheesecake batter up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate them separately to maintain freshness. Meanwhile, the crust can be baked and stored tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble, simply layer the prepped apple filling and cheesecake batter into the crust, top it with crumble, and bake as directed. This method not only streamlines your cooking process but also ensures your dessert is just as delicious when it’s time to serve! Apple Crumble Cheesecake Variations Feel free to explore different twists and turns for this delightful dessert that will tickle your taste buds! Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour to create a tasty base that everyone can enjoy. Nutty Crumble: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture boost in your crumble topping and added flavor contrast. Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut yogurt in place of sour cream for a creamy filling. Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or a dash of ginger to the filling for an exhilarating twist that’s perfect for the fall season. Fruit Swap: Try using ripe pears instead of apples for a softer, sweet filling. The combination will be equally irresistible! Caramel Swirl: Drizzle a homemade caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling before baking, creating delightful pockets of indulgence throughout. Choco-Delight: Mix in mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter to enhance the flavors and provide a delightful surprise in every bite. Citrusy Kick: Add a touch of orange zest to the apple filling for a refreshing citrus note, beautifully complementing the spices. No matter how you choose to experiment, each one of these variations will make your Apple Crumble Cheesecake unique and delightful. And while you’re exploring variations, why not check out our other delectable recipes like Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or Creamy Vanilla Cheesecake Bars for even more inspiration? Happy baking! Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I select the best apples for this cheesecake? For the best Apple Crumble Cheesecake, I recommend using firm varieties like Granny Smith apples, which provide a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the cheesecake. Look for apples that are free of blemishes or dark spots, as these can indicate over-ripeness. If you want to experiment, you can also substitute with pears for a different flavor profile. How should I store leftover cheesecake? Store your Apple Crumble Cheesecake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Make sure it is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any strong odors from other foods in your fridge. If you want to keep it longer, you might consider freezing it instead, which is a great option for long-term storage! Can I freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake? Absolutely! To freeze your Apple Crumble Cheesecake, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it without any toppings for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. The flavors will remain intact, and you can add your favorite toppings right before serving. What should I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking? If you notice cracks in your Apple Crumble Cheesecake, don’t worry! It can happen to the best of us. To prevent this from happening in the future, ensure that you gently beat the filling ingredients and avoid overmixing, as incorporating too much air can cause cracks. Additionally, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar to help stabilize the temperature and prevent sudden temperature shocks. Is this cheesecake gluten-free? Yes, it can be made gluten-free! Simply substitute the graham crackers used in the crust with gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free cookies or almond flour mixed with a bit of sugar and butter. Just be sure to check the labels on your other ingredients as well, especially for processed items, to ensure they are also gluten-free. Can I use different spices or extracts in this recipe? Very! Feel free to get creative with the flavors in your Apple Crumble Cheesecake. You can swap out the cinnamon and nutmeg for other spices, like ginger or cardamom, or even use almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist. The beauty of cooking is making it your own, so don’t hesitate to experiment! Creamy Apple Crumble Cheesecake to Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings Indulge in a delicious Apple Crumble Cheesecake, blending creamy cheesecake with spiced apple filling for a crowd-pleasing dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes minsChilling Time 5 hours hrsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1.5 cups graham crackers or digestive biscuits0.25 cups granulated sugar0.5 cups melted unsalted butterFor the Cheesecake Filling16 ounces cream cheese at room temperature3 large eggs at room temperature2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste1 teaspoon cinnamon0.5 teaspoon nutmeg0.5 cups sour cream full-fatFor the Apple Filling3-4 cups apples preferably Granny Smith0.5 cups brown sugar dark brown sugar optional2 tablespoons unsalted butter1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh0.25 teaspoon kosher saltFor the Topping0.5 cups unsalted butter meltedExtra Crumble (Optional) chopped nuts for added crunch Equipment 9-inch springform panMedium saucepanFood ProcessorElectric MixerMixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the apple filling by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples. Combine in a saucepan with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Thicken with cornstarch slurry and let cool.Make the crust by preheating oven to 350°F. Pulse graham crackers into crumbs, mix with sugar and cinnamon, then blend with melted butter. Press into springform pan and bake for 7-8 minutes. Cool completely.Prepare the cheesecake filling by lowering the oven to 280°F. Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, add vanilla and sour cream, followed by eggs and cornstarch, mixing gently.Assemble by pouring half of the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust, layering the apple filling, then topping with the remaining batter. Sprinkle with crumble topping.Bake for 1 hour until edges are set and center is jiggy. Turn off oven, cool with door ajar for 1-2 hours.Chill wrapped in plastic for at least 5 hours or overnight before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesServe with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a gourmet touch. Experiment with different fruits or extract flavors for personalization. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
