As the leaves turn golden and a crisp breeze fills the air, I find myself longing for the comforting sweetness of fall desserts. There’s something truly magical about an Apple Crumble Cheesecake, with its luscious layers of creamy cheesecake paired with tender, spiced apples. Not only does this decadent dessert give a delightful twist to two classics, but it also offers a gluten-free option that means everyone can indulge! Imagine serving this showstopper at your next gathering, where the aroma of cinnamon and caramel sauce wafts through the room, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from the crumble topping and a smooth richness that makes it comfort food at its finest. Ready to elevate your dessert game this season? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why is Apple Crumble Cheesecake a Must-Try?
Comforting Layers: This Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines the best of both worlds—rich, creamy cheesecake and warm apple pie, making it a perfect treat for fall gatherings.
Gluten-Free Option: Enjoy a delicious dessert without the gluten worry! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Your family and friends will absolutely love this dessert; it’s a guaranteed hit during holiday celebrations.
Unique Crunch: The crunchy crumble topping adds a delightful texture, creating a beautiful contrast to the smooth cheesecake.
Quick Prep Time: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this showstopper in no time! For additional apple-inspired treats, be sure to check out Caramel Apple Cheesecake or Fall Apple Cider to complete your cozy gathering.
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Crust
• Graham crackers – The base of the crust, can substitute with digestive biscuits or gluten-free graham crackers.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust and cheesecake filling; caster sugar works beautifully as an alternative.
• Unsalted butter – Binds the crust and contributes richness; melted butter is best for blending.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream cheese – The star of the show; ensure it’s full-fat and at room temperature for a smooth texture.
• Eggs – Provide structure; room-temperature eggs mix more evenly for a creamy batter.
• Cornstarch – Stabilizes the cheesecake; swap with flour if necessary.
• Vanilla extract – Elevates the cheesecake flavor; consider a vanilla bean or its extract for an intense taste.
• Sour cream – Adds tang and creaminess, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
For the Apple Filling
• Apples (5 medium) – Core and chop; choose tart varieties (like Granny Smith) for a balanced filling.
• Brown sugar – Deepens the flavor of the apple filling.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Classic spices for that warm apple pie flavor; essential in fall desserts.
• Lemon juice – Brightens the apple mixture and prevents browning.
For the Crumble Topping
• Rolled oats – Adds texture to the topping; quick oats can be used as a substitute.
• All-purpose flour – Forms the crumble; replace with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor in both the crust and crumble topping.
• Brown sugar – Provides a sweet depth to the crumble topping for that perfect crunch.
This delightful Apple Crumble Cheesecake is sure to warm your heart and home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice 5 medium apples into bite-sized pieces. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then stir in ¼ cup of water, ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Add the apples and cook for about 10 minutes until fork-tender. Once ready, thicken the mixture with a cornstarch slurry and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Drizzle in 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes, or until the crust is slightly golden, then remove and allow it to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Lower the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C). In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat 16 ounces of cream cheese, ¾ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in ½ cup of sour cream, ensuring everything is well-combined. Beat in 3 eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Finally, sift in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, mixing it gently to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine ¾ cup of rolled oats, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Pour in 6 tablespoons of melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside while you assemble your cheesecake layers.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, then layer the prepared apple filling evenly on top. Follow with the remaining cheesecake batter, smoothing it out gently. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the top layer. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1-2 hours. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks. After cooling, refrigerate the Apple Crumble Cheesecake for at least 5 hours or overnight before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully for the perfect dessert experience.
What to Serve with Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Imagine gathering around the table, where sweet aromas mingle, creating the perfect backdrop for celebration and connection.
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Warm Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and sweet flavor beautifully contrast the cheesecake, providing a delightful way to enhance each bite. A scoop alongside warm cheesecake creates a comforting experience, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Chocolate: A cup of rich, velvety hot chocolate infused with cinnamon elevates your dessert experience, complementing the warm spices of your cheesecake. This pairing invites warmth and coziness, making it ideal for fall gatherings.
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Homemade Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel adds a sweet, buttery touch that highlights the apple flavors in the cheesecake, making every bite irresistible. You could serve a small bowl on the side for guests to indulge as they wish!
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Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted pecans or walnuts brings a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the table, perfectly balancing the creamy and sweet elements of the cheesecake. Their rustic flavors tie back to the autumn theme of your dessert.
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Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea, with its fragrant spices, pairs beautifully with the spices of the cheesecake, enhancing the cozy feel of your dessert menu. This can be a comforting non-caffeinated option for guests to sip.
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Apple Cider: A glass of warm or chilled apple cider resonates with the apple theme of the cheesecake while adding freshness to your dessert spread. It’s a nostalgic and seasonal drink choice, perfect for fall celebrations.
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Pumpkin Pie Bars: If you want to offer variety, these bars can provide a different texture while still staying true to the fall flavors everyone loves. Together, they’ll give your guests a little something extra to enjoy!
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Maple Pecan Tart: For those who love a touch of decadence, this tart brings rich flavors that complement the apple cheesecake’s sweetness, making it a sweet choice for gatherings.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream is a classic and simple addition that adds a light, fluffy texture to each bite of your rich cheesecake. It enhances every flavor, making it a timeless choice.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Fridge: Store leftover Apple Crumble Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious for your next indulgent treat.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake slightly warmed, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. This helps enhance the flavors and creates a cozy, comforting dessert experience.
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to customize your Apple Crumble Cheesecake with these delightful twists that will elevate your dessert!
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Pear Substitute: Swap apples for ripe pears for a sweeter, juicier filling that surprises the palate.
Consider combining both fruits for a delightful medley of flavors! -
Biscoff Crust: Use crushed Biscoff cookies instead of graham crackers for a uniquely spiced, caramelized crust.
The buttery, slightly molasses flavor in Biscoff will add a wonderful, unexpected twist. -
Nutty Crumble: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
This will enhance both texture and the overall rustic feel of the cheesecake. -
Cinnamon Roll Variation: Layer in cinnamon roll pieces among the apple filling for a sweet, gooey surprise.
You’ll create a wonderful cinnamon flavor that just screams comfort on a cozy evening. -
Light Glaze: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the cheesecake instead of caramel for a lighter finish.
This provides a sweet contrast without overwhelming the creamy layers! -
Extra Spice: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper to the apple filling for a subtle kick.
It’s the perfect way to warm up your taste buds for fall! -
Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative made from cashews or tofu.
This way, everyone can enjoy this heavenly dessert without compromising on richness. -
Caramelized Apples: Try caramelizing the apples first for an even deeper flavor and a lovely, sticky texture.
It adds a luxurious touch that will thrill your guests, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Each variation brings its own charm, just like the flavors of fall. For more apple-inspired recipes, don’t forget to check out our Air Fryer Apple Fritters or our delightful Apple Chips Sweet for a delightful snack to enjoy alongside your dessert.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Crumble Cheesecakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic fall days! You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. The cheesecake batter can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To maintain quality, cover the batter tightly to prevent it from absorbing any odors. When you’re ready to bake, layer the chilled apple filling and cheesecake batter in your pre-baked crust, sprinkle over the crumble topping, and follow the baking instructions as usual. You’ll end up with a delicious dessert that tastes just as fresh and delightful!
Expert Tips for Apple Crumble Cheesecake
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Room-Temperature Ingredients: Always use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother mixture and to prevent lumps in your Apple Crumble Cheesecake batter.
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Gentle Mixing: Mix the cheesecake filling just until combined. Over-mixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your final dessert.
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Avoid Oven Cracks: Resist the urge to open the oven door during baking. Sudden temperature changes can cause the cheesecake to crack and lose its beautiful appearance.
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Check for Doneness: The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools in the fridge.
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Crumble Variation: For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
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Chill Time: Allow your Apple Crumble Cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven and then chill for at least 5 hours before serving. This enhances the flavor and helps set the cheesecake perfectly.
Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the apple filling?
Very! For a balanced flavor, I recommend using tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Fuji. Mixing both types can create a lovely depth of flavor.
How should I store leftover Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keeping it covered will maintain its moisture and flavor, enabling you to savor each delicious slice.
Can I freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Don’t worry, it happens! If you see cracks, it could be due to overmixing or sudden temperature changes. Always mix the batter gently until just combined, and avoid opening the oven door during baking. If cracks do form, consider covering them with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for visual appeal.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make a gluten-free version of this Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Simply substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers and use a gluten-free flour blend for the crumble topping. Your dessert will be delicious and safe for everyone to enjoy!
Delicious Apple Crumble Cheesecake for Cozy Fall Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the apple filling by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples. Cook in a saucepan with butter, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice for 10 minutes.
- Make the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add melted butter, mix, and press into a springform pan. Bake for 7-8 minutes.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Mix in sour cream, then add eggs one at a time. Sift in cornstarch and mix gently.
- Prepare crumble topping by mixing oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then stir in melted butter.
- Assemble by pouring half of the cheesecake filling on the crust, adding apple filling, then the remaining cheesecake batter. Top with crumble.
- Bake at 300°F for about 60 minutes. Let cool in the oven for 1-2 hours and refrigerate for at least 5 hours before serving.
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