Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines the creamy decadence of classic cheesecake with the warm, spiced goodness of apple crumble. A rich graham cracker crust, a silky cream cheese filling, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a buttery crumble topping make this dessert a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or a cozy night in, it’s a harmonious blend of soft and crunchy, sweet and tangy that is sure to impress.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Pastry cutter (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife for slicing apples
- Water bath (optional but recommended for a smooth cheesecake)
Ingredients
- - **For the Crust:**
- - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- - **For the Cheesecake Filling:**
- - 16 oz cream cheese softened
- - 1 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/2 cup sour cream
- - 2 large eggs
- - 1 tsp vanilla extract
- - **For the Apple Filling:**
- - 4 cups apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, thinly sliced
- - 1/2 cup brown sugar
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg optional
- - 1/4 tsp ground cloves optional
- - 1 tbsp lemon juice
- - **For the Crumble Topping:**
- - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1/2 cup brown sugar
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
- - 1/2 cup oats optional
Instructions
- **Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:** Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until damp sand forms. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool.
- **Make the Cheesecake Filling:** Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until fully combined but don’t overbeat. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.
- **Prepare the Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Layer:** Toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (optional), and lemon juice. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- **Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake:** Bake at 325°F (160°C) in a water bath for 55–65 minutes, until the center jiggles slightly. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- **Prepare the Crumble Topping:** Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to form crumbs. Sprinkle crumble topping over the cheesecake and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until golden brown.
- **Optional Glazes and Finishing Touches:** Drizzle caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese and eggs replaced with flaxseed meal.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers and certified gluten-free oats.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers and certified gluten-free oats.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.