Name: Irresistible Apple Crisp Cheesecake for Cozy Fall Nights
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 14 pieces Graham Crackers (Use digestive biscuits for a gluten-free option.); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Substitute with coconut sugar for deeper flavor.); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Allspice can be used as an alternative.); 0.25 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 7 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 0.33 cup All-Purpose Flour (Almond flour can be used for gluten-free.); 0.5 cup Light Brown Sugar (Can use maple sugar as a substitute.); 0.33 cup Old-Fashioned Oats (Use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option.); 2 cups Honeycrisp Apples (Substitute with Fuji or Gala apples.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Homemade vanilla extract is delightful.); 0.67 cup Sour Cream (Substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.); 32 ounces Full-Fat Cream Cheese; 4 large Large Eggs (Use omega-3 enriched eggs for added nutrition.)

As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with a crisp chill, it’s that time of year when comforting desserts take center stage. Let me introduce you to my favorite fall delicacy: Apple Crisp Cheesecake! This delightful fusion brings together the rich creaminess of cheesecake with a crunchy apple crisp topping, creating a mouthwatering treat that celebrates the essence of autumn. Not only does this recipe promise an impressive dessert for any holiday gathering, but it also boasts a quick prep time, making it a breeze to whip up. With warm cinnamon spice wafting through your kitchen, your guests will be asking for seconds—even thirds! Curious about how to create this irresistible combo? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Apple Crisp Cheesecake Amazing?

Comforting & Cozy: There’s no better way to embrace fall than with a warm, spice-laden dessert that brings the essence of the season to your table.

Unforgettable Flavor: The fusion of creamy cheesecake and sweet, tart Honeycrisp apples gives this dish an impressive depth of flavor that will leave everyone craving more.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, this cheesecake is sure to impress family and friends—serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream for an extra touch!

Quick Prep Time: Ready in a flash, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up this stunning dessert, leaving you more time to enjoy your guests’ company.

Uniquely Delicious: With its crunchy topping reminiscent of classic apple crisp, this recipe stands out as a creative twist on traditional flavors—not to mention, the smell alone will make your kitchen the heart of the home.

Don’t forget to pair it with a warm drizzle of caramel sauce or try some delightful Baked Apple Fritters for a complete fall dessert experience!

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Ingredients

For the Graham Crust

Graham Crackers – 14 graham crackers provide a sweet and crunchy base; use digestive biscuits as a gluten-free alternative.
Granulated Sugar – 2 tablespoons adds sweetness to the crust; substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – ½ teaspoon enhances flavor warmth in the crust; can use allspice as an alternative.
Kosher Salt – ¼ teaspoon balances sweetness in the crust.
Unsalted Butter – 7 tablespoons, melted binds crust ingredients together; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

For the Apple Crisp Topping

All-Purpose Flour – ⅓ cup forms the structure of the apple crisp topping; can substitute with almond flour for gluten-free.
Light Brown Sugar – ⅓ cup + 2 tablespoons sweetens the topping; can use maple sugar as a substitute.
Old-Fashioned Oats – ⅓ cup adds texture to the topping; use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free option.

For the Cheesecake Filling

Honeycrisp Apples – 2 cups, peeled and diced provide a sweet and tart flavor; substitute with Fuji or Gala apples.
Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling; homemade vanilla extract is a delightful option.
Sour Cream – ⅔ cup contributes creaminess and tang; substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Full-Fat Cream Cheese – 32 ounces is the primary component of the cheesecake, providing a rich and creamy texture.
Large Eggs – 4 help set the cheesecake and add richness; use omega-3 enriched eggs for added nutrition.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by ensuring all ingredients for your Apple Crisp Cheesecake are at room temperature. This step is crucial for creating a smooth cheesecake filling, so leave the cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs out for about 30 minutes. Gather all utensils and equipment, including a springform pan and mixing bowls, to keep things organized as you cook.

Step 2: Make Graham Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to get a head start on the cooking process. In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs before mixing in granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Pour in the melted butter and combine until you achieve a wet sand consistency. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown, then set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare Apple Topping
While the crust cools, prepare the apple topping for your cheesecake. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced Honeycrisp apples with brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Gently toss until the apples are well coated, then let them sit aside. This step will infuse the apples with sweetness and enhance their flavor while you proceed to the next steps.

Step 4: Create Crisp Topping
Now it’s time to make the crispy layer that sits atop your cheesecake. In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon. Add the softened butter and mix until it resembles small pea-sized crumbles. This crunchy topping is essential to complement the creamy cheesecake beneath, so ensure it’s well combined before setting it aside.

Step 5: Make Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the full-fat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Gradually add in the sour cream and vanilla extract, blending well. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated to avoid overmixing. Your luscious filling is now ready to be poured into the prepared crust!

Step 6: Assemble Cheesecake
Pour the creamy cheesecake filling over the cooled graham crust, spreading it into an even layer. Next, evenly distribute the cinnamon-coated apple mixture over the top of the cheesecake. Finally, sprinkle the crisp topping over the apples, ensuring it’s well-covered. Wrap the springform pan tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan filled with hot water, creating a water bath that helps maintain moisture while baking.

Step 7: Bake
Carefully place the assembled cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 70-75 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the center reaches a temperature of 150°F (65°C). You’ll notice that the edges are set while the center still has a slight jiggle. This slight jiggle indicates that the cheesecake will finish cooking as it cools.

Step 8: Cool
Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the oven door slightly cracked for about 1 hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracking. Afterward, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, then let it cool completely on the countertop before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Apple Crisp Cheesecake

As you prepare to indulge in this delightful dessert, think about the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your experience and delight your senses.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the cheesecake’s rich flavors, providing a wonderful contrast in temperatures and textures. This classic pairing will have everyone savoring each heavenly bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your slice takes the experience to new heights. The sweet, buttery flavor enhances the apple crisp topping and gives a luscious touch that’s simply irresistible.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream balances the cheesecake’s density, while its subtle sweetness allows the rich flavors of the cheesecake to shine. A dollop on top adds a lovely presentation touch.
Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: A cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee or latte will warm your soul while enhancing the cozy, fall spices in the cheesecake. It’s the perfect way to round out your dessert experience.
Baked Apple Fritters: Serve these alongside your cheesecake for a delightful treat that echoes the apple flavors from your main dessert. Their crispy exterior and soft center will have everyone begging for just one more!
Chai Tea: This fragrant tea introduces layers of warm spices, creating a soothing contrast to the rich cheesecake. Sip it slowly while you enjoy every bite of dessert for a comforting, autumnal experience.

Expert Tips for Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
Don’t Overmix: When adding eggs to the cheesecake filling, mix just until incorporated to avoid a dense texture and prevent cracks during baking.
Use a Water Bath: Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps maintain moisture and creates a creamy texture. Wrap the springform pan tightly to prevent leaks.
Check Doneness Carefully: Instead of relying solely on the jiggle test, use a thermometer to ensure the center reaches 150°F (65°C) for perfect results.
Cool Gradually: After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked for at least an hour to help prevent surface cracking.
Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the Apple Crisp Cheesecake overnight before serving; it truly improves with time!

Make Ahead Options

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert with minimal last-minute effort. You can prepare the graham crust and the apple topping up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The cheesecake filling can also be made a day ahead—just remember to refrigerate it covered in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cheesecake with the prepped components and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll save valuable time while still presenting a mouthwatering dessert that is just as delightful as if made fresh that day!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Fridge: Keep your Apple Crisp Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to preserve its flavors and prevent dryness.
Freezer: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn; note that the topping may lose its crunch upon thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, allow the cheesecake to thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. For a delightful experience, serve chilled or warm slightly in the oven at a low temperature before slicing.
Leftover Topping: If you have extra apple crisp topping, store it separately in the fridge for up to a week; it can be sprinkled on each slice when serving for added texture.

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Variations!

Customizing your Apple Crisp Cheesecake can bring out even more delightful flavors and textures—let your imagination run wild!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and almond flour in the crisp topping for a gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream for a delicious non-dairy twist.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cheesecake before serving for an indulgent, sweet touch that elevates the flavors.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling for a new level of warmth and complexity in flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crisp topping for an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cheesecake batter for a chocolatey twist or sprinkle chocolate chips over the apple topping.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries for a vibrant fruit medley that complements the apples beautifully.
Maple Twist: Substitute brown sugar in the topping with pure maple syrup for a rich, unique flavor that screams autumn.

Explore these variations for your next baking session! And if you’re a fan of all things apple, you might also enjoy whipping up some Air Fryer Apple Fries or a comforting Baked Apple Cinnamon dish to complement your delightful cheesecake!

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using Honeycrisp apples, as they provide a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness. If they’re unavailable, Fuji or Gala apples are excellent substitutes, bringing their own unique sweetness to the dish.

How should I store leftovers of the Apple Crisp Cheesecake?
To keep your Apple Crisp Cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It’s best to store it in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its delicious flavors and creamy texture.

Can I freeze the Apple Crisp Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Just keep in mind that the crunchy topping may lose its texture upon thawing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Very! Cracks can happen, but there are ways to minimize them. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing after adding the eggs. Additionally, using a water bath during baking helps maintain moisture, which can also prevent cracking. If cracks do occur, simply cover them with the apple topping for a beautiful presentation!

Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
Absolutely! You can make this Apple Crisp Cheesecake gluten-free by substituting graham crackers with gluten-free digestive biscuits and using almond flour in the crisp topping. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, especially when choosing oats and baking powders.

What if I want to make this cheesecake a day ahead? Is that advisable?
Very! In fact, making the cheesecake a day in advance is recommended, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it cool completely after baking before covering it, and refrigerate it without toppings until you’re ready to serve!