When the leaves begin to crisp and the air turns brisk, there’s a certain magic in the kitchen. For many families, the arrival of autumn brings more than pumpkin patches and flannel shirts — it marks the season for treasured, comforting desserts. And few treats embody fall more than a rich, spiced apple butter cheesecake.
I remember the first time I tasted apple butter. It was at a harvest fair, served warm on a thick slice of homemade bread. The taste was sweet and deeply spiced, almost like eating the essence of fall. Years later, I decided to fold that memory into a dessert that feels like a warm hug — blending silky cream cheese with the caramelized richness of apple butter. The result? A smooth, slightly tangy cheesecake that’s nestled into a cinnamon graham crust and topped with a glossy swirl of more apple butter. This dessert is more than delicious — it’s nostalgic.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, cozy weekends, or anytime you want to capture fall on a fork, this apple butter cheesecake brings together tradition, warmth, and flavor in one beautiful slice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Combines two comforting classics: apple butter and creamy cheesecake.
- A great make-ahead dessert for fall gatherings and holidays.
- Beautiful presentation with rustic swirls of spiced apple butter on top.
- Offers a warm, spiced flavor without being overly sweet.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup apple butter (plus more for topping)
Optional Garnish:
- Extra apple butter
- Whipped cream
HOW TO MAKE Apple Butter Cheesecake:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the texture resembles damp sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Slowly add the sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla and eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Blend in the sour cream until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Apple Butter
Fold in the apple butter gently — this is what gives the cheesecake its signature warm spice and rich apple flavor. Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Swirl & Bake
If desired, add a few teaspoons of apple butter to the top of the batter and swirl it gently with a butter knife for a marbled effect. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Step 5: Cool & Chill
Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra apple butter for a sweet finish.
HELPFUL TIPS:
- Make sure all your filling ingredients are at room temperature for the creamiest texture.
- Don’t skip the chilling time — it allows the flavors to settle and the cheesecake to firm up.
- To slice cleanly, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
DETAILS:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chill time)
- Yield: 10–12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
NOTES:
This apple butter cheesecake pairs beautifully with warm drinks like chai tea or spiced cider. For a deeper autumn touch, sprinkle the top with crushed pecans before baking.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
(Per slice, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 26g
- Protein: 6g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I use homemade apple butter?
Absolutely! Homemade apple butter adds an even deeper flavor. Just ensure it’s thick and well-spiced.
Do I need a water bath for baking?
It’s not required for this recipe, but if you prefer extra insurance against cracking, you can bake it in a water bath.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Store your apple butter cheesecake in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing
- Creamy Honey Cheesecake
- Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake
- Layered Chocolate Cheesecake with Oreo Crust (No Bake)
CONCLUSION:
There’s something about apple butter cheesecake that feels like home. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for making memories around the table. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday feast or just to cozy up on a cool weekend, this cheesecake is sure to be a seasonal favorite. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to dessert for fall.
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Apple Butter Cheesecake
Description
When the leaves begin to crisp and the air turns brisk, there’s a certain magic in the kitchen. For many families, the arrival of autumn brings more than pumpkin patches and flannel shirts — it marks the season for treasured, comforting desserts. And few treats embody fall more than a rich, spiced apple butter cheesecake.
I remember the first time I tasted apple butter. It was at a harvest fair, served warm on a thick slice of homemade bread. The taste was sweet and deeply spiced, almost like eating the essence of fall. Years later, I decided to fold that memory into a dessert that feels like a warm hug — blending silky cream cheese with the caramelized richness of apple butter. The result? A smooth, slightly tangy cheesecake that’s nestled into a cinnamon graham crust and topped with a glossy swirl of more apple butter. This dessert is more than delicious — it’s nostalgic.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, cozy weekends, or anytime you want to capture fall on a fork, this apple butter cheesecake brings together tradition, warmth, and flavor in one beautiful slice.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
-
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
-
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon cinnamon
-
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
-
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
3 large eggs
-
½ cup sour cream
-
¾ cup apple butter (plus more for topping)
- Optional Garnish:
-
Extra apple butter
-
Whipped cream
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the texture resembles damp sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Slowly add the sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla and eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Blend in the sour cream until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Apple Butter
Fold in the apple butter gently — this is what gives the cheesecake its signature warm spice and rich apple flavor. Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Swirl & Bake
If desired, add a few teaspoons of apple butter to the top of the batter and swirl it gently with a butter knife for a marbled effect. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Step 5: Cool & Chill
Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra apple butter for a sweet finish.
Notes
This apple butter cheesecake pairs beautifully with warm drinks like chai tea or spiced cider. For a deeper autumn touch, sprinkle the top with crushed pecans before baking.