Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Imagine the comforting warmth of apple crisp combined with the creamy richness of cheesecake—sounds like a dream, right? Well, this Apple Crisp Cheesecake is exactly that, a dessert that marries two of your favorite treats into one irresistible masterpiece. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, and a topping of spiced apples and crispy oat streusel, each bite is a delightful journey of textures and flavors.

This recipe is perfect for cozy autumn days, holiday gatherings, or simply when you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting. It’s a bit of a showstopper, with layers that look as stunning as they taste. And the best part? It’s easier to make than you might think!

Recipe Summary

Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for those who can’t choose between cheesecake and apple crisp. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a spiced apple crisp topping that’s both crunchy and sweet. The combination of smooth cheesecake with the cinnamon-spiced apples and the crumbly oat topping is simply divine.

This dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. The layers create a beautiful presentation, while the flavors and textures are everything you want in a fall dessert—comforting, rich, and utterly delicious.

Exciting Story

This recipe holds a special place in our home. My husband is a cheesecake fanatic, and my kids adore anything with apples, so when I combined the two into this Apple Crisp Cheesecake, it became an instant family favorite. The first time I made it, I remember everyone gathered around the kitchen, waiting eagerly for it to cool. The warm, spicy aroma filled the house, making it feel like a cozy autumn day even in the middle of summer. Now, this cheesecake is a staple for our holiday celebrations and any time we want to treat ourselves to something special.

Why This Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

• Perfect Flavor Fusion: Combines the best of cheesecake and apple crisp into one dessert.
• Textural Delight: Creamy cheesecake with a crunchy, buttery topping.
• Seasonal Comfort: Ideal for fall, with warm spices and sweet, juicy apples.
• Showstopper Dessert: Beautiful layers that impress both in appearance and taste.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until fully incorporated. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated. Arrange the apples over the cheesecake layer, slightly overlapping them.

Step 4: Make the Crisp Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crisp topping over the apples.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set and the topping is golden brown. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the cheesecake loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. When ready to serve, carefully remove the springform pan and slice the cheesecake into pieces.

Tips

• Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are perfect for this recipe as their tartness balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
• Prevent Cracking: To prevent the cheesecake from cracking, bake it in a water bath or place a pan of water on the oven rack below the cheesecake.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Apples: Try using a mix of apples, such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn, for a more complex flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers and flour to make this dessert gluten-free.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping for extra crunch.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and topping.
• Lightened Up: Substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for the full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.

Closing

And there you have it! A delightful Apple Crisp Cheesecake that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With its rich, creamy filling, spiced apple topping, and crisp streusel, this dessert is the ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to let us know how your cheesecake turns out, and be sure to explore our other delicious dessert recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What kind of apples should I use?
Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tart flavor, but you can use any firm, tart apple.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake without the apple topping for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What can I use instead of a springform pan?
A deep dish pie pan can work in a pinch, but a springform pan is best for easy removal and serving.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Use room temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing, and bake the cheesecake in a water bath.