Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Prep Time: 30 minutes, Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes, Chill Time: 4-6 hours (or overnight) , Total Time: 6+ hours Servings: 12-16 slices

Indulge in the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts with this spectacular apple crumble cheesecake that combines the creamy richness of New York-style cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of traditional apple crumble. This fall cheesecake masterpiece features layers of spiced apples, velvety cream cheese filling, and a buttery cinnamon crumble topping that creates an unforgettable dessert experience perfect for autumn celebrations and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients for Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Graham Cracker Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 crackers, finely crushed)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Spiced Apple Layer:

• 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
• ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cheesecake Filling:

• 32 oz cream cheese (4 packages), room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Why This Apple Cheesecake Recipe Works

This apple crumble cheesecake succeeds because it carefully balances multiple textures and flavors without overwhelming any single component. The graham cracker crust provides a sturdy, slightly sweet foundation that complements both the tart apples and rich cheesecake filling.

The spiced apple layer is pre-cooked to remove excess moisture and concentrate flavors, preventing the dreaded soggy bottom that can plague fruit-topped cheesecakes. The combination of Granny Smith apples with warm spices creates that classic apple pie flavor profile that pairs beautifully with cream cheese.

The cheesecake filling uses the perfect ratio of cream cheese to eggs and sour cream, ensuring a dense yet creamy texture that won’t crack during baking. Room temperature ingredients are crucial for achieving the smooth, lump-free consistency that defines exceptional cheesecake.

The Science Behind Perfect Cheesecake Texture

Understanding the science behind homemade apple cheesecake ensures consistent results every time. Cheesecake is essentially a custard, and like all custards, it relies on gentle, even cooking to achieve the proper texture.

The cream cheese provides structure and richness, while eggs act as the binding agent that creates the custard-like consistency. Sour cream adds tang and helps create a smoother, more luxurious mouthfeel while also contributing to the cheesecake’s stability.

Temperature control is critical throughout the process. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, preventing lumps and ensuring even distribution. The water bath method (bain-marie) creates gentle, humid heat that prevents cracking and ensures even cooking from edge to center.

Apple Crumble Cheesecake

🍏🍰 Creamy cheesecake layered with spiced apples and topped with a buttery crumble — the perfect fall dessert or cozy treat!

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter melted

Filling

• 24 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Apple Topping

• 3 cups peeled and diced apples
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into cubes

Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and sour cream.
4. Pour cream cheese mixture over the crust and smooth the top.
5. In a small bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the cheesecake batter. Dot with cold butter cubes.
6. Bake for 50–55 minutes, until the center is just set. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing.

Notes

Serve chilled, optionally with whipped cream or caramel drizzle 🍮. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, covering the bottom and sides completely. This prevents water from leaking in during the water bath. Grease the inside of the pan with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it down firmly. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Spiced Apple Layer

While the crust bakes, prepare the apples. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cook, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until the apples are tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract. Remove from heat and let cool completely. This step is crucial for preventing excess moisture in the finished cheesecake.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until incorporated after each addition. Don’t overbeat, as this can incorporate too much air and cause cracking.

Beat in sour cream, vanilla extract, flour, and salt on low speed just until combined. The mixture should be smooth and free of lumps.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake

Spread the cooled apple mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Pour the cheesecake filling over the apples, spreading gently to cover completely. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 6: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger butter pieces. Stir in pecans if using. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but still be crumbly.

Step 7: Bake in Water Bath

Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 45 minutes.

Remove from oven and carefully sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the surface of the cheesecake. Return to the water bath and continue baking for 25-30 minutes, until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven and prop the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the water bath and let cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Flavor Profile and Serving Suggestions

This autumn cheesecake offers a complex flavor journey that begins with the subtle sweetness of the graham cracker crust, develops into warm spiced apples reminiscent of fresh apple pie, and culminates in the rich, tangy cheesecake filling topped with buttery, crunchy crumble.

The apple cinnamon cheesecake pairs beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an extra special presentation, dust with powdered sugar just before serving or garnish with thin apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor development. The contrast between the cold, creamy cheesecake and the warm spices creates a comforting dessert perfect for fall and winter celebrations.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This layered apple dessert actually improves with time, making it an excellent make-ahead option for entertaining. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors meld and intensify, while the texture becomes even more luxurious.

For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The crumble topping may lose some crispness after freezing, but the overall flavor remains excellent.

When making ahead for parties, prepare the cheesecake up to 3 days in advance. The crumble topping can be made separately and stored in the refrigerator, then sprinkled on before the final baking stage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cracking is the most common issue with cheesecake. Prevent it by using room temperature ingredients, not overbeating the filling, baking in a water bath, and cooling gradually. If cracks do appear, they’ll be hidden under the crumble topping in this recipe.

Soggy crust can result from excess moisture in the apple layer. Always cook the apples until most liquid has evaporated, and let them cool completely before assembling. The pre-baked crust also helps create a barrier against moisture.

Uneven cooking usually stems from temperature fluctuations. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy, and avoid opening the oven door during baking, which can cause temperature drops and cracking.

Seasonal Variations and Adaptations

While this fall cheesecake is perfect with apples, it adapts beautifully to other seasonal fruits. Try pears with cardamom and ginger for a sophisticated twist, or use a mixture of berries in summer for a completely different but equally delicious dessert.

For a more intense apple flavor, add ½ cup of apple cider reduction to the apple layer. Simmer 2 cups of apple cider until reduced to ½ cup, let cool, then stir into the cooked apples.

Gluten-free adaptation is possible by substituting the graham crackers with gluten-free cookies and using gluten-free flour in the filling and crumble topping. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.

Nutritional Considerations and Quality Ingredients

This apple dessert is undeniably rich, but using quality ingredients elevates both flavor and nutritional value. Choose organic apples when possible, as they often have better flavor and fewer pesticide residues.

Full-fat cream cheese and sour cream are essential for proper texture and flavor. Low-fat versions will result in a less creamy, potentially grainy cheesecake that won’t set properly.

The apple layer does provide some fiber and vitamins, while the oats in the crumble topping add additional fiber and texture complexity.

Presentation and Special Occasion Ideas

This apple crumble cheesecake makes a stunning centerpiece for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or Halloween parties. The rustic crumble topping contrasts beautifully with the elegant cheesecake base, creating visual interest that photographs beautifully for social media.

For individual servings, consider making mini versions in muffin tins. Reduce baking time to 18-22 minutes and adjust cooling time accordingly. These individual apple cheesecakes make elegant party desserts or gifts.

Garnish with fresh apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a sprig of fresh thyme for an Instagram-worthy presentation that highlights the seasonal ingredients.

This apple crumble cheesecake represents the perfect marriage of classic American desserts, combining the best elements of cheesecake and apple crumble into one show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re celebrating fall flavors, entertaining guests, or simply craving the ultimate comfort dessert, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results that will have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe.