Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Category:Desserts & Baking

Delicious apple crisp cheesecake topped with cinnamon-spiced apple slices and crunchy streusel crumble, perfect for dessert lovers.

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a tasty blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet, spiced apples, all topped with a crunchy oat topping. It’s like having dessert and pie in one!

Making this cheesecake is a breeze! I love how the smells of cinnamon and baked apples fill the kitchen. It’s perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself—because you deserve it! 🍏

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give a nice sweet and buttery base to your cheesecake. If you need a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a different twist.

Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth filling. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. Vegan cream cheese works too if you want a dairy-free treat!

Sour Cream: This adds richness and tang. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a similar taste and texture, plus it’s a bit healthier. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt option.

Apples: I love using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for their sweetness and texture. If those aren’t available, Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness, or feel free to mix different types for more flavor!

Old-Fashioned Oats: They help create that crisp topping. You might also try quick oats in a pinch; just know they won’t be as crunchy!

How Do You Properly Bake Cheesecake to Avoid Cracks?

Baking cheesecake can be tricky, but there are some simple tips to avoid cracks. First, mix your ingredients gently, as overbeating introduces air bubbles which can cause cracks while baking.

  • Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
  • Once you pour the filling over the crust, bake it slowly and steadily. Lowering the oven temperature to 325°F helps bake evenly.
  • Leave the cheesecake in the oven after it’s baked, with the door slightly open. This prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
  • Lastly, let it chill completely in the fridge for hours (or overnight) before serving to set properly.

With these tips, you’ll have a beautiful, creamy cheesecake that’s sure to impress your guests! Enjoy making your Apple Crisp Cheesecake!

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Apple Topping:

  • 2 medium apples, thinly sliced (e.g., Fuji or Honeycrisp)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Crisp Topping:

  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Serving:

  • Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Time Needed:

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 60-70 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll need to chill it for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Then, stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually add in the sugar and flour while mixing until well combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Finally, mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the filling is creamy and smooth.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still jiggles a little. To prevent cracks, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour, with the door slightly open.

4. Prepare the Apples:

While your cheesecake is baking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring to combine. Then, add the apple slices and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still holding their shape. Remove from heat and set aside.

5. Make the Crisp Topping:

In another medium bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix it with a fork until you see clumps form. This will create a delightful crisp topping.

6. Assemble the Topping:

After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, spread the cooked apples evenly over the top. Then, sprinkle the crisp topping generously over the apples.

7. Finish Under Broiler or in Oven:

Now it’s time to add some golden crunch! Place the cheesecake under the broiler or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crunchy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

8. Chill and Serve:

Let the cheesecake cool completely. Once cool, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight to set properly. Before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce and, if you like, garnish with additional apple slices!

Enjoy this luscious Apple Crisp Cheesecake with its wonderful combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet apples, and crunchy topping! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Can I Use Different Types of Apples?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are great choices for their sweetness, you can also use Granny Smith for a tart flavor. Mixing different types will add depth to the flavor profile!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, make sure to keep the caramel sauce separate until you’re ready to serve!

Can I Make This Cheesecake Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour for the crust. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!

Do I Have to Use Sour Cream?

If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute and offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. You can also use cream cheese, but it will be a tad richer.

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