Apple Crumble Cheesecake

There’s something magical about combining two timeless desserts into one stunning creation. This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the epitome of indulgence—a creamy cheesecake base layered with tender spiced apples and crowned with a golden crumble topping. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for fall gatherings, family dinners, or simply savoring a slice with a cup of tea, this cheesecake is sure to win hearts and become a staple in your recipe collection.

The roots of this dessert lie in the comforting simplicity of an apple crumble paired with the luxurious texture of a cheesecake. While the crumble speaks of rustic charm, the cheesecake adds sophistication, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is as satisfying to create as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Match Made in Heaven: This recipe combines the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm, spiced goodness of apple crumble. Every bite is a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
• Seasonal Perfection: With spiced apples and a buttery crumble topping, this dessert captures the essence of fall and winter, making it an ideal centerpiece for holiday celebrations or cozy evenings.
• Simple Yet Impressive: While it looks and tastes gourmet, the step-by-step process is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This cheesecake can be made ahead of time, giving you one less thing to worry about when hosting a gathering or preparing a festive feast.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (680 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (Granny Smith preferred)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramel Sauce:

• Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce, for drizzling

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and stir in the diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften and release their juices.
3. Add the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Mix in the sour cream, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer.
2. Spoon the cooled apple filling over the batter, spreading it evenly to create a second layer.
3. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apple layer and smooth the top.

Step 5: Add the Crumble Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture forms clumps.
3. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cheesecake.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 60–70 minutes. The center should be set but slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
3. Remove the cheesecake and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle the cheesecake with caramel sauce before serving. Slice into pieces and serve with a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Helpful Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Use the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe as their tartness balances the sweetness of the dessert.
• Avoid Overmixing: When mixing the cheesecake filling, overmixing can introduce air bubbles, which may lead to cracks.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours (including cooling and chilling)
• Yield: 12 slices
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Notes for the Perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake

• Use a Springform Pan: A 9-inch springform pan ensures easy removal and a flawless presentation.
• Prevent Cracks: Cool the cheesecake gradually by leaving the oven door slightly open after baking.
• Chill Properly: Let the cheesecake chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
• Crumble Add-Ins: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Apple Choices: Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji work too.
• Don’t Overbake: The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
• Caramel Boost: Use store-bought or homemade caramel for drizzling.
• Serving Idea: Pair with spiced cider or chai tea for a cozy treat.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Apple Crumble Cheesecake, you’ll also enjoy:

• Old-Fashioned Easy Apple Crisp

Conclusion

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a testament to the power of combining flavors and textures to create something truly special. Whether it’s for a festive holiday table or a quiet evening indulgence, this dessert is sure to delight. Take your time crafting this masterpiece, and don’t forget to savor every last crumb!

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