The Coziest Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe For Fall Gatherings

Creamy cheesecake meets classic apple crisp in a dessert that blends comfort and indulgence perfectly.

Sweet layers of cinnamon-spiced apples nestle atop a rich, velvety filling.

Buttery graham cracker crust provides a delightful crunch underneath the smooth cream cheese base.

Warm spices dance through each heavenly bite, creating a symphony of autumn flavors.

Seasonal ingredients shine in this crowd-pleasing treat that feels both familiar and exciting.

Crisp apple slices caramelize beautifully, adding depth and complexity to every forkful.

Why Apple Crisp Cheesecake Is a Sweet Delight

• Savor Seasonal Comfort: This apple crisp cheesecake brings together two beloved desserts in one stunning treat that feels like a warm hug.
• Create Impressive Layers: The recipe combines graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and crunchy crisp topping for a multi-textural experience that wows guests.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations where everyone craves a slice of something special and indulgent.
• Master Baker's Delight: Though slightly complex, this recipe allows home bakers to elevate their skills and create a professional-looking dessert that tastes absolutely incredible.

Ingredients Needed for Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Graham Crackers: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs and creates a rich, solid crust.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its smooth and creamy texture.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent and help create a stable, rich cheesecake structure.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a silky, creamy consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm, classic flavor to the cheesecake.
• Cornstarch: Helps prevent cracking and stabilizes the cheesecake.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic spice that complements the apple flavor.

• Apples: Provide a fresh, fruity element and natural sweetness to the dessert.
• Butter, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: Create a classic apple crisp topping with rich, caramelized flavors.
• Salted Caramel Sauce: Offers a final drizzle of sweet and salty indulgence.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Line a springform pan with parchment paper and wrap the exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage during baking.

Step 2: Craft Graham Cracker Base

Blend graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove and let cool.

Step 3: Caramelize Apple Filling

• Sliced apples
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Butter

Sauté until apples soften and become slightly translucent.

Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 4: Mix Crispy Crumble Topping

• Flour
• Rolled oats
• Brown sugar
• Chopped pecans
• Ground cinnamon
• Melted butter

Blend ingredients until they form a crumbly texture.

Set aside.

Step 5: Whip Cheesecake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.

• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Cornstarch
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream

Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Step 6: Assemble Layered Cheesecake

Pour cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.

Arrange caramelized apples on top, then sprinkle the crispy crumble mixture evenly across the surface.

Step 7: Bake in Water Bath

Place the cheesecake in a large roasting pan filled with hot water.

Bake for 55-65 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly but set.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

Step 9: Serve with Decadent Drizzle

Before serving, generously drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake.

Slice and enjoy the rich, creamy, and crunchy dessert.

Pro Tips for Apple Crisp Cheesecake Success

• Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to create a moist environment, which helps prevent surface cracks and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
• Pat the cooked apples dry before adding to the cheesecake to prevent excess moisture from making the dessert soggy.
• Freeze the crisp topping for 10 minutes before sprinkling over the cheesecake to help it maintain a crunchy texture during baking.
• Let all ingredients come to room temperature before mixing to create a smoother, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• This dessert tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld and develop a richer taste profile.

Variations of Apple Crisp Cheesecake to Explore

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use certified gluten-free ingredients to ensure safe consumption for those with celiac disease.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut cream instead of sour cream. Replace eggs with cornstarch and additional plant-based milk to bind the cheesecake.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use fresh apples with minimal added sugar. Replace salted caramel sauce with a sugar-free caramel alternative made from sugar-free syrup.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Cozy Autumn Gathering: Serve this cheesecake as the star dessert during fall family dinners, creating warm memories with loved ones.
• Elegant Dessert Plating: Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, and a caramel drizzle for restaurant-style presentation.
• Coffee Pairing Paradise: Complement the rich dessert with a hot espresso or warm chai latte to enhance the apple and cinnamon flavors.
• Seasonal Brunch Centerpiece: Feature this decadent cheesecake as a show-stopping finale to a weekend brunch with friends, perfectly capturing autumn's essence.

Best Storage Tips for Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Store leftover apple crisp cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Slice cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 1 month to maintain best texture and flavor.
• Transfer frozen cheesecake from freezer to refrigerator 24 hours before serving. Let it slowly defrost to prevent moisture loss and maintain creamy consistency.

FAQs

• How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Use a water bath, avoid overmixing the batter, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent sudden temperature changes.

• Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, choose firm baking apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn that hold their shape and provide a nice tartness to balance the sweet cheesecake.

• What if I don't have a springform pan?

You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but removing the cheesecake might be more challenging. A springform pan is recommended for easier serving.

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent apple crisp cheesecake marries classic comfort with creamy sophistication, blending spiced autumn apples and silky cream cheese. Crunchy streusel topping and graham cracker crust promise delightful textures that welcome seasonal warmth with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Gala)

Crust and Topping Ingredients:

• 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Additional Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salted caramel sauce (for serving)
• Boiling water (for water bath)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a springform pan with parchment paper and wrap exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage.
2. Crush graham crackers and mix with melted butter. Press firmly into pan bottom. Bake crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove and cool.
3. Dice apples and sauté in skillet with brown sugar and cinnamon until tender and caramelized, approximately 5-7 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.
4. Prepare crisp topping by combining flour, oats, brown sugar, and cold butter, mixing until crumbly texture forms.
5. In large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until smooth. Gradually incorporate granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Blend thoroughly.
6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to maintain batter smoothness.
7. Pour cheesecake mixture over prepared crust, ensuring even distribution.
8. Layer sautéed apples across cheesecake surface, then sprinkle crisp topping evenly.
9. Place cheesecake in deep roasting pan filled with hot water. Bake 55-65 minutes until center is slightly jiggly but set.
10. Remove from oven and water bath. Cool completely at room temperature for 2 hours.
11. Refrigerate overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
12. Before serving, drizzle with salted caramel sauce and slice carefully.

Notes

• Prevent cheesecake cracking by ensuring all ingredients are room temperature before mixing, which helps create a smooth, even texture.
• Wrap the springform pan tightly with foil to prevent water from seeping into the crust during the water bath baking method.
• For a gluten-free version, swap graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts like almonds for the crust base.
• Enhance the apple flavor by using a mix of tart and sweet apple varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for more complex taste profile.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 28 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg