There’s a certain charm in putting on your favorite apron and creating something delightful in the kitchen, and this Apple Crumble Cheesecake embodies that spirit perfectly. Just the thought of those warm, spiced apples nestled atop a rich, creamy cheesecake, all cradled in a crunchy cookie crust, feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
One afternoon, while trying to elevate my usual weekend dessert, I combined two of my favorites—apple crumble and cheesecake. The result? A harmonious marriage of textures and flavors that left my friends raving and my family returning for seconds, and maybe even thirds!
Not only is this dessert a crowd-pleaser, but it also brings a heavenly aroma that fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether for a cozy family gathering or a casual dinner party, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is sure to become a beloved centerpiece, turning even the simplest occasions into something special. So, grab your baking essentials and let’s get creating this deliciously easy treat!
Why is Apple Crumble Cheesecake a Must-Try?
Delightful Fusion: This recipe perfectly marries cheesecake and apple crumble, bringing together flavors and textures you love.
Effortless Process: With straightforward steps, you can impress family and friends without the fuss—perfect for home cooks!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Rich, creamy cheesecake and spiced apples create a comforting dessert that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Versatile Dessert: Whether served warm or chilled, it’s delicious any way you slice it, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Aromatic Experience: The warm spices and baked apples fill your kitchen with a welcoming fragrance that’s simply irresistible.
For more scrumptious dessert ideas, don’t miss our cheesecake recipes.
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Crust
• Digestive or graham crackers – use these crunchy cookies as a buttery base for the cheesecake.
• Ground nutmeg – adds a hint of warmth and spice to elevate the crust flavors.
• Ground cinnamon – this classic spice enhances the overall taste profile, making it feel homely.
• Dark brown sugar – delivers a deep caramel flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
• Butter, melted – binds the crust ingredients together for that perfect texture.
For the Apple Layer
• Apple, diced small – choose your favorite variety; tart apples balance perfectly with the sweetness of the cheesecake.
• Granulated sugar – helps to draw out the natural juices of the apples and enhance their sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon – extra sprinkle here highlights the classic apple pie flavor.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• All-purpose flour – stabilizes the cheesecake, giving it a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Dark brown sugar – enriches the cheesecake with a touch of molasses flavor.
• Butter, room temperature – ensures easy mixing into the batter for a rich mouthfeel.
• Cream cheese, full fat – the star of the show; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cheesecake while balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Sour cream – contributes to a creamy texture and enhances the cheesecake’s tang.
• Cornstarch – acts as a thickening agent, ensuring that the cheesecake holds its shape.
• Vanilla extract – infuses a rich aroma and depth of flavor to the filling.
• Large eggs – add structure and creaminess to the cheesecake; room temperature helps them blend smoothly.
These carefully selected ingredients come together to create your very own Apple Crumble Cheesecake—a treat worthy of any gathering!
How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake
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Preheat your oven to 160ºC/325ºF, creating the perfect environment for baking that delicious cheesecake.
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Blend the digestive or graham crackers, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a food processor until they resemble fine sand.
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Mix in the melted butter and blend until combined. This will create a rich, buttery crust that’ll hold everything together.
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Prepare your spring cake pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper. Press the cookie mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, then bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool afterwards.
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Dice the apples into small pieces and toss them with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl, enhancing their natural sweetness. Set aside as they soak up those flavors.
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Combine the flour, dark brown sugar, and room temperature butter in another bowl. Mix by hand or use an electric mixer until you achieve a crumbly structure for the topping. Set this aside too.
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Cream the room temperature cream cheese in a stand mixer on low speed for about 1 minute. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing for an additional minute after it’s fully incorporated.
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Stir the sour cream and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Add this mixture along with the vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing on low speed until completely combined.
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Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl’s sides and mix again to ensure a smooth filling.
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Pour the cheesecake batter into the spring pan and top with the cinnamon sugar apples and the crumble you made earlier.
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Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger cake pan and filling it with hot water up to about ⅔ up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 1 hour and 20-30 minutes until slightly wobbly in the center.
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Cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and the water bath, then let it cool on a rack for about an hour at room temperature.
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Refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Optional: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
Avoid Cracks: Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent cracks on the surface.
Perfect Water Bath: Use a larger pan for the water bath, ensuring that the water level reaches ⅔ up the sides of the springform pan without spilling. This helps maintain moisture while baking.
Quality Apples Matter: Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith; they balance the sweetness of the cheesecake, enhancing the apple crumble flavor.
Chill Overnight: For the best texture and flavor melds, refrigerate your Apple Crumble Cheesecake overnight before serving. This patient wait is well worth it!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Fridge: Store your cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness and creamy texture.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze the Apple Crumble Cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To thaw, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge for several hours or overnight. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may alter the creamy consistency.
Serving: For best results, serve the cheesecake chilled straight from the fridge, allowing the rich flavors to shine through.
What to Serve with Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Indulge in a delightful spread that complements the warm, spiced flavors of this creamy dessert.
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Fresh Berries: A handful of mixed berries adds a refreshing burst of color and acidity that balances the richness of the cheesecake.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the creamy texture, making each bite feel decadent.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of warm cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a comforting dessert experience.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your cheesecake adds a luscious sweetness that beautifully contrasts the tart apples.
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Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, helps cleanse the palate and adds warmth to your dessert experience.
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Hot Apple Cider: A glass of spiced hot apple cider brings out the apple flavors in the cheesecake and adds a cozy vibe to your gathering.
Pair these delightful options with your Apple Crumble Cheesecake to create a tempting dessert table that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Crumble Cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal choice for busy cooks! You can prepare the crust and crumble topping up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers at room temperature to maintain their texture. Additionally, the cheesecake filling can be made 24 hours ahead and kept in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to assemble, pour the filling onto the pre-baked crust, layer with the spiced apples, and sprinkle the crumble on top. Bake as directed, and rest assured, your Apple Crumble Cheesecake will be just as delicious, saving you precious time while still delivering a delightful dessert for your family or guests!
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to personalize your cheesecake with these delightful twists and substitutions that’ll tickle your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut yogurt for the filling to make it plant-based-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the graham crackers for gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a deliciously crumbly crust.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crust for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with apples.
- Fruit Twist: Experiment with other fruits like pears or berries to create a seasonal variation that makes each bite exciting.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle store-bought or homemade caramel sauce over the top before serving for a decadent sweetness that complements the spiced apples.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of allspice or ginger to the apple mixture for an aromatic, flavor-packed twist that warms the heart.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter for a surprise layer of richness that chocolate enthusiasts will adore.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crushed cereal or granola instead of crumble for a delightful texture and a fun morning vibe if served as breakfast!
These variations let you create your own unique Apple Crumble Cheesecake and keep the excitement alive for every occasion!
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for the Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith. Their tanginess beautifully balances the sweetness of the cheesecake, making every bite irresistible. If you prefer a sweeter option, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well, but make sure to adjust the sugar accordingly.
How can I store the cheesecake after making it?
To keep your Apple Crumble Cheesecake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain delicious for up to 5 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Can I freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is a great way to preserve your cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge to thaw for several hours or overnight for the best texture.
What if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Very! Cracking is a common concern, but it’s easily fixable. To prevent cracks, allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour after baking. This gentle cooling process helps maintain its structure. If cracks are unavoidable, you can cover them with the crumble topping once cooled!
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
While the Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful treat, it does contain common allergens like dairy and eggs. For those with lactose intolerance, using lactose-free cream cheese and sour cream can work as a substitute. If you’re making this for someone with egg allergies, I recommend looking into egg replacements such as applesauce or a store-bought egg replacer, but keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly.
How long should I refrigerate the cheesecake before serving?
I often recommend chilling your Apple Crumble Cheesecake for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight. This rest time allows all the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set perfectly, resulting in a delightful, creamy texture that everyone will adore!
Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake You’ll Adore at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 160ºC/325ºF.
- Blend the digestive or graham crackers, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a food processor until they resemble fine sand.
- Mix in the melted butter and blend until combined.
- Prepare your spring cake pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper. Press the cookie mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, then bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool afterwards.
- Dice the apples into small pieces and toss them with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl.
- Combine the flour, dark brown sugar, and room temperature butter in another bowl.
- Cream the room temperature cream cheese in a stand mixer on low speed for about 1 minute. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing for an additional minute.
- Stir the sour cream and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Add this mixture along with the vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing on low speed.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the spring pan and top with the cinnamon sugar apples and crumble.
- Create a water bath and bake for 1 hour and 20-30 minutes until slightly wobbly in the center.
- Cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight.