Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re a fan of both cheesecake and apple crisp, you’re in for a delightful treat. The Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines the creamy texture of a classic cheesecake with the comforting flavors of an apple crisp, creating a dessert that is indulgent, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. This recipe balances sweetness and spice, with tender apples layered over a rich cream cheese filling, all on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. Let’s dive into the details to make this delicious dessert at home.

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 🍪
• 1/4 cup melted butter 🧈

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 cups cream cheese, softened 🧀
• 1 cup sour cream 🧄
• 1 cup granulated sugar 🍬
• 4 large eggs 🥚
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦

Apple Topping

• 2 cups apples, peeled and sliced 🍏
• 1/2 cup rolled oats 🌾
• 1/4 cup brown sugar 🥜
• 1 tsp cinnamon 🍂

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 80 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400 kcal

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust

The crust is the foundation of your Apple Crisp Cheesecake, and making it properly ensures that the entire dessert holds together well.

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup melted butter. Use a fork to mix the crumbs and butter until they are well combined and resemble wet sand.
2. Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. This will create a solid base for your cheesecake. To ensure an even layer, use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press down the crumbs.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 10 minutes. Once done, set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

The cheesecake filling is the star of this dessert, providing the creamy, smooth texture that everyone loves.

1. Beat the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 3 cups of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Mix Until Smooth: Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air, causing the cheesecake to crack during baking.
3. Pour Over the Crust: Once smooth, pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even layer.

3. Prepare the Apple Topping

The apple topping adds a warm, spiced flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake perfectly.

1. Slice the Apples: Peel and slice 2 cups of apples. For best results, use tart apples like Granny Smith, which balance the sweetness of the cheesecake.
2. Cook the Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, add the sliced apples, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the apples are softened and slightly caramelized.
3. Add Rolled Oats: Stir in 1/2 cup of rolled oats until they are evenly distributed. The oats add a wonderful texture to the topping, reminiscent of a traditional apple crisp.

4. Assemble and Bake

Now that you have all the components ready, it’s time to assemble the cheesecake.

1. Add the Apple Topping: Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake filling. Try to distribute the apples so that every slice will have a bit of the delicious topping.
2. Bake the Cheesecake: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The residual heat will continue to cook the cheesecake as it cools.
3. Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Cut into slices and serve chilled for a creamy, delicious dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and apple crisp.

Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the ingredients blend more easily and prevents lumps.
• Prevent Cracking: To avoid cracks in your cheesecake, do not overmix the batter, and bake it in a water bath if possible. The steam from the water bath helps maintain a gentle cooking environment.
• Chill Thoroughly: Let the cheesecake chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This will give the cheesecake the perfect texture and make it easier to slice.
• Use Tart Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best for this recipe because they add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake.

Health Benefits of Apple Crisp Cheesecake

While this dessert is definitely a treat, there are some benefits to the ingredients used:

• Apples: Rich in fiber, apples aid in digestion and provide essential vitamins such as Vitamin C and potassium.
• Oats: Adding oats to the topping provides a boost of dietary fiber, which helps support heart health.
• Calcium: The cream cheese and sour cream in the cheesecake are good sources of calcium, which is essential for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Cheesecake Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, this cheesecake tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator.

2. How Should I Store Leftover Cheesecake?

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

3. Can I Use a Different Type of Crust?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use a cookie crust made from crushed gingersnaps or digestive biscuits instead of graham cracker crumbs. This can add a different flavor dimension to the dessert.

4. What Kind of Apples Are Best for This Recipe?

Granny Smith apples are ideal because of their tart flavor, which contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cheesecake. However, you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter variation.

Conclusion

The Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a delightful blend of two classic desserts, bringing together the creamy richness of cheesecake and the spiced, fruity goodness of apple crisp. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dessert is sure to impress. With its buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and warm apple topping, every bite is a comforting mix of flavors and textures.

Don’t forget to take your time with each step, use quality ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious dessert. Happy baking! 🍏🍰