A delightful blend of autumnal warmth and classic indulgence, Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This decadent treat combines the rich creaminess of traditional cheesecake with spiced apples and a buttery crumble topping, all set on a crisp graham cracker crust. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that will impress both cheesecake lovers and apple dessert enthusiasts alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser that merges the best of two worlds—cheesecake and crumble. The smooth and tangy cheesecake base is elevated with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples, and finished with a golden, crunchy topping. It’s a perfect dessert for fall gatherings, holidays, or simply to satisfy your cozy dessert cravings. Plus, it’s a make-ahead treat that gets better as it chills, making it as convenient as it is delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
graham cracker crumbs
granulated sugar
unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
cream cheese, softened
granulated sugar
large eggs
sour cream
vanilla extract
For the Apple Layer:
large apples, peeled and diced
lemon juice
granulated sugar
cinnamon
nutmeg
For the Crumble Topping:
all-purpose flour
light brown sugar
cinnamon
unsalted butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- In a bowl, toss diced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside to marinate.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until just incorporated. Pour the mixture into the cooled crust.
- Evenly distribute the apple mixture over the cheesecake batter.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle over the apple layer.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the center is nearly set. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes plus at least 4 hours of chilling
Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per slice
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the graham crackers and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives.
- Caramel Apple Version: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple layer before adding the crumble topping.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for extra texture.
- Spiced Twist: Enhance the warm flavors with a pinch of ground cloves or ginger in the apple filling.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Prepare the recipe in a muffin tin for individual servings—reduce baking time accordingly.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap the cheesecake (whole or sliced) tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled, but if you prefer it warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
FAQs
What type of apples work best for this cheesecake?
Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best as they hold their shape and provide a balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake actually improves in flavor and texture after chilling overnight.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a pre-made graham cracker crust can be used, but ensure it fits well in your springform pan.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture and more uniform apple layer.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Cracks often occur from overmixing or sudden temperature changes. Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps prevent this.
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes, pears or berries can be used instead of apples, though cooking times and flavors will vary.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The center should jiggle slightly but not be liquid. It will firm up more as it cools and chills.
Can I make this recipe without a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for easy removal, but you can use a deep-dish pie plate—just be mindful of slice presentation.
Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture and flavor, but low-fat versions can be used in a pinch.
What should I serve with this cheesecake?
It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert fusion that delivers warmth, sweetness, and creaminess in every bite. With its spiced apple filling and crunchy crumble topping, this recipe is a standout for fall festivities, holiday tables, or whenever you want to indulge in something special. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this cheesecake promises comfort and elegance in one irresistible slice.
Print
Apple Crumble Cheesecake
- Total Time: 90 minutes + chill time
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a luscious fusion of creamy vanilla cheesecake, warm spiced apples, and a buttery brown sugar crumble topping, all baked in a golden graham cracker crust. Perfect for cozy autumn gatherings, holidays, or when you’re craving a comforting slice of heaven.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
-
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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24 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Layer:
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2 large apples, peeled and diced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Crumble Topping:
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3/4 cup all-purpose flour
-
1/2 cup light brown sugar
-
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
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Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the pan’s bottom and sides. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
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Toss diced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
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Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in sour cream and vanilla. Pour into cooled crust.
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Layer the apple mixture over the cheesecake filling.
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Mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until crumbly, then sprinkle over the apples.
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Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the center is almost set. Turn off oven, crack door, and cool cheesecake inside for 1 hour.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
-
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness.
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A chilled overnight rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
