Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

If you're a fan of cheesecake and love the warm, comforting taste of apple crisp, then this Apple Crisp Cheesecake recipe is exactly what you need to try. Imagine a creamy cheesecake with a buttery, cinnamon-laden apple topping and a crunchy oat streusel. It’s the perfect dessert to serve during the holidays or any time you want to treat yourself to something truly special. Keep reading to discover the best way to make this decadent dessert and learn all the tips and tricks to perfect it.

this Recipe

What is Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a delightful combination of two classic desserts—cheesecake and apple crisp. It features a creamy, smooth cheesecake base topped with spiced apples and a crunchy, sweet oat crumble. The contrast between the rich cheesecake filling and the textured apple crisp topping creates a dessert that's rich in flavor and pleasing to the senses. If you're looking for a show-stopping dessert for fall gatherings or holiday dinners, this is it!

Ingredients List for Apple Crisp Cheesecake

For the Cheesecake Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Apple Topping:

• 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crisp Topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some variations and substitutions you can consider if you want to tweak the recipe:

1. Crust Variation: While graham crackers are classic, you can switch it up with gingersnap cookies or even use a shortbread cookie base for added richness.
2. Apple Substitutes: If you can’t find Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, you can use Golden Delicious or Pink Lady apples, which also hold their shape well when baked.
3. Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers and use certified gluten-free oats.
4. Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for an extra crunch.
5. Vegan Variation: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut oil instead of butter, and substitute eggs with a vegan egg replacer if you want to make a plant-based version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, ensuring it forms an even layer. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
3. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the apple slices with the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
2. Arrange the apples on top of the cheesecake filling in an even layer.

Step 4: Make the Crisp Topping

1. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracks on the surface.
3. After the hour is up, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

How to Cook Apple Crisp Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepping the Ingredients

• Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Ensure that the cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling and that your apples are peeled and sliced to an even thickness.
• Set out your butter and cut it into cubes so that it’s easy to incorporate into the crisp topping later.

2. Layering and Baking

• Layering the apple slices carefully ensures a balanced bite in every slice of the cheesecake.
• Baking the cheesecake low and slow helps it maintain its creamy consistency without becoming too dense.

3. Cooling and Chilling

• Cooling the cheesecake in the oven gradually, followed by refrigeration, is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly and avoid surface cracks. This step is often overlooked, but it’s essential to get that flawless finish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the prebake of the crust: Always prebake the crust before adding the cheesecake filling. This step prevents a soggy bottom.
• Overmixing the filling: Overbeating the cheesecake batter can cause too much air to incorporate, leading to cracks during baking.
• Not chilling the cheesecake long enough: Refrigeration is key! Rushing this step will result in a cheesecake that doesn’t hold its shape when sliced.
• Using the wrong type of apples: Some apples turn mushy when baked. Stick to firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Serve this cheesecake chilled for the best texture. You can serve it as is, or add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar can also add a nice touch.

Presentation Ideas for Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Rustic Charm: Serve each slice with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and a cinnamon stick for a cozy fall vibe.
• Elegant Plating: Drizzle caramel sauce artistically over the plate before placing the cheesecake slice on top. Garnish with thinly sliced apple wedges and a mint sprig for a restaurant-quality look.

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe Tips

1. Use a Springform Pan: A springform pan allows you to easily remove the cheesecake without damaging it. Make sure to wrap the bottom in foil to prevent any leaks during baking.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps them blend together more smoothly for a silky cheesecake.
3. Oven Thermometer: Cheesecakes require precise baking temperatures, so an oven thermometer can help ensure that your oven is at the right heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This cheesecake actually tastes better after it has chilled overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

2. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

3. Can I use canned apples instead of fresh apples?

While fresh apples give the best flavor and texture, you can use canned apple pie filling in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before layering it on the cheesecake.

4. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent cracking, avoid overmixing the batter, bake it at a low temperature, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven before chilling.

Conclusion

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the ultimate fall dessert that perfectly blends the creaminess of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of apple crisp. With its rich layers and crisp topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a treat for yourself. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a flawless dessert that looks just as good as it tastes. Don’t forget to try the variations and make this recipe your own!

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