Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines the delicious flavors of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and crispy topping all in one dessert. It has a perfect balance of sweet and tart, thanks to the apples, while the creamy filling is rich and satisfying. When you take a bite, you will experience a delightful mix of textures – from the buttery crust to the smooth filling and crunchy topping. It is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a special celebration.
Why Make This Recipe
This dessert is not only tasty, but it also offers something unique compared to traditional desserts. The combination of apple crisp and cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends. It is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for both holidays and everyday celebrations. Plus, making this cheesecake allows you to enjoy baking, which can be a fun and rewarding experience.
What You Need for Apple Crisp Cheesecake
To make this delightful dessert, you will need a few key ingredients. Here’s a list of what you need:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups graham crumbs
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)
- 2 large apples (I recommend Granny Smith or Gala)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (melted)
- 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese (680 grams) (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml) (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- boiling water (for the water bath)
- salted caramel sauce
How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Creating this delicious Apple Crisp Cheesecake involves several steps. Let’s walk through them:
Step 1: Prepare the Springform Pan
First, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C or 160°C on a fan-forced oven). Take a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan and wrap the outside with tin foil. Make sure to cover both the bottom and the sides at least 3-4 times to seal all seams. This prevents water from leaking in during baking. Then, lightly grease the pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a bowl, combine the graham crumbs, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to create a solid crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Apples
Peel and slice the apples thinly. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon, tossing everything together until the apples are coated.
Step 4: Make the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir in the quick oats and melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Add in the granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, cornstarch (or flour), and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined. Then, add in the sour cream and mix until smooth. Finally, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan. Next, layer the cinnamon apples over the filling, followed by the remaining cheesecake filling. Then, sprinkle the crisp topping evenly on top. Carefully place the springform pan into a large roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with boiling water halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
Bake the cheesecake for about 60 to 70 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour with the door slightly ajar. This temperature change helps to prevent cracking.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the hour is up, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for a while. Afterward, place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. When ready to serve, drizzle with salted caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Best Ways to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake
The best way to serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake is chilled straight from the refrigerator. The flavors develop beautifully after being chilled. You can serve it plain or with a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top. Some people love to add a dollop of whipped cream for a creamier texture. Pair it with a nice cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
How to Store Apple Crisp Cheesecake
To store your cheesecake, cover it well with plastic wrap or put it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months frozen. Thaw it in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.
Easy Tips to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother filling without lumps.
Don’t Over Mix: When adding the eggs to the filling, mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.
Water Bath: Using a water bath helps regulate the temperature and ensures even baking, preventing cracks in your cheesecake.
Watch the Time: Don’t overbake. The cheesecake should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out of the oven.
Try These Variations of Apple Crisp Cheesecake
- Add Nuts: Mix in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the crisp topping for added crunch.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to give your cheesecake a unique flavor.
- Fruit Variations: While apples are classic, you can try using pears or mixed berries for a different fruity twist.
Common Questions About Apple Crisp Cheesecake
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a day or so.
2. Can I use different apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Gala apples work wonderfully, you can use any apple variety you prefer. Just make sure they’re good for baking.
3. What can I do if my cheesecake cracks?
If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry! You can cover it with a layer of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to hide the cracks.
Final Thoughts
Making an Apple Crisp Cheesecake might seem daunting, but with a little patience and effort, you can create a beautiful and delicious dessert that everyone will love. The blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced crunchy apple topping is truly a winner. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this delightful treat!
Ready to Give It a Try?
There’s no better time than now to start baking your own Apple Crisp Cheesecake! Follow the steps and enjoy a treat that is not only delicious but also brings together the comforting flavors of fall. Happy baking!
Print
Apple Crisp Cheesecake
- Total Time: 100 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crispy topping, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 cups graham crumbs
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- boiling water (for the water bath)
- salted caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan with tin foil and non-stick spray.
- Combine graham crumbs, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl, then mix in melted butter and press into the bottom of the pan.
- Peel and slice the apples, then toss with 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon.
- Mix flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon with quick oats and melted butter to create the crisp topping.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla, and sour cream, mixing well. Finally, beat in the eggs.
- Layer half the cheesecake filling in the pan, followed by apples, then the rest of the filling and the crisp topping.
- Place the springform in a roasting pan filled halfway with boiling water and bake for 60-70 minutes.
- Cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar, then chill for at least 4 hours before serving with caramel sauce.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother filling. Don’t overmix to prevent cracks. A water bath helps with even baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg