This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a tasty blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet, spiced apples topped with a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave something sweet!
Every bite is like a warm hug! I can’t resist sneaking extra bites of that yummy crisp topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’re in dessert heaven! 🍏🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These add a sweet and crunchy base to the cheesecake. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or even crushed nuts as a substitute for a tasty crust.
Cream cheese: This is the heart of the cheesecake. Make sure it’s softened for a smooth filling. If you want a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese. For dairy-free, you could use cashew cream or tofu blended to a smooth texture.
Apples: Granny Smith apples work best for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples can also be great. If you don’t have fresh apples, you can use canned pie filling, though I recommend draining it first to prevent excess moisture.
Caramel sauce: A drizzle of caramel adds sweetness! If you want to avoid store-bought, you can easily make your own by melting sugar until it’s golden brown and whisking in butter and cream. Yum!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Cheesecake Texture?
Getting the cheesecake just right can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Always start with room temperature cream cheese. Cold cheese will yield lumps in your filling.
- Mix on low speed once you add eggs; overmixing can incorporate too much air and cause cracks as it bakes.
- Use a water bath while baking for a gentler heat, which helps prevent cracks. Just place your springform pan into a larger pan filled with warm water.
After baking, let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent drastic temperature changes. Finally, chilling it overnight is key for a firm, creamy texture. Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the apple filling:
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the crisp topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For drizzling:
- Caramel sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert requires about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus 60-70 minutes for baking, and a chilling time of at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results). The wait is worth it for this irresistible treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the crust:
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are moistened and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the apple filling:
In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, flour, and lemon juice to coat evenly. Set this aside for later.
3. Prepare the cheesecake filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and blend until well-combined. Next, mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition for a smooth filling.
4. Assemble the cheesecake:
Now it’s time to layer! Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan. Spoon the apple filling evenly over the layer of cheesecake. Then, gently pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Prepare the crisp topping:
In a bowl, mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This will create your delightful crisp topping.
6. Add the topping:
Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer. It’s going to be delicious!
7. Bake the cheesecake:
Now, place your cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. You want the edges to be set, while the center should still jiggle slightly. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely on a wire rack. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
8. Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top of the cheesecake. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice your cheesecake, and enjoy this heavenly Apple Crisp Cheesecake!
This dessert effectively brings together a creamy filling, spiced apples, and a crunchy oat topping, making it a perfect treat for any occasion! Dig in and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Apples for the Filling?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or any sweet apple you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the apples you use!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cheesecake a day or two ahead of time. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate it wrapped in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh and delicious, perfect for parties!
What Should I Do If My Cheesecake Cracks While Baking?
Cracking can happen if the cheesecake is overbaked or cooled too quickly. To prevent this, bake in a water bath and gradually cool in the oven with the door ajar. If cracks do occur, don’t worry—cover them with caramel sauce or whipped cream for a beautiful presentation!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months—just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing, and thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
