Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

The Ultimate Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe: Sweet & Irresistible

Sinking your fork into a decadent apple crumble cheesecake that blends creamy indulgence with nostalgic comfort.

Crisp autumn apples nestle between layers of velvety cream cheese and buttery crumb topping.

Every slice promises a symphony of textures dancing across your palate.

Warm spices whisper memories of grandmother’s kitchen while delivering unexpected elegance.

Rich and luxurious, this dessert transforms classic favorites into something extraordinary.

Seasonal ingredients merge in a celebration of sweet, tangy perfection.

You’ll want to savor each magical bite slowly and share this remarkable creation with those who appreciate culinary magic.

Twist Ideas For Apple Crumble Cheesecake

  • Rustic Berry Fusion: Swap apples with mixed berries like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant and tangy cheesecake experience. Adjust sugar levels to complement the berries' natural sweetness.
  • Nutty Caramel Charm: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb base and drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the finished cheesecake. Sprinkle toasted nuts on top for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Seasonal Pumpkin Spice Version: Replace apple chunks with pumpkin puree and add warm autumn spices like nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to the cheesecake batter. Create a spiced graham cracker crust for a cozy fall-inspired dessert.
  • Tropical Coconut Escape: Blend shredded coconut into the graham cracker crust and fold coconut flakes into the cheesecake filling. Top with caramelized pineapple chunks for a Hawaiian-inspired sensational treat.

FAQs On Apple Crumble Cheesecake

  • What makes this cheesecake different from a traditional cheesecake?

This recipe combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the classic flavors of apple crumble, creating a delightful fusion dessert that offers the best of both worlds.

  • Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust instead of graham crackers?

Absolutely! You can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits or shortbread cookies for a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining a similar crumbly texture.

  • Is this recipe suitable for people who don't like overly sweet desserts?

Yes, the combination of tangy cheesecake and spiced apple crumble provides a balanced sweetness that isn’t overwhelming, making it appealing to those who prefer less sugary desserts.

  • How difficult is this recipe for a home baker with moderate skills?

This apple crumble cheesecake is moderately easy to make. If you’re comfortable with basic baking techniques like mixing ingredients and using an oven, you should be able to successfully create this delicious dessert.

Why Apple Crumble Cheesecake Feels So Cozy

  • Crunch and Creaminess Combined: This recipe blends the classic apple crumble's rustic texture with the smooth, velvety richness of cheesecake, creating a delightful contrast that makes every bite exciting.
  • Effortless Baking Magic: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dessert feels like a culinary triumph even for novice bakers, transforming basic components into a stunning showstopper.
  • Comforting Flavor Fusion: The warm cinnamon notes from the graham cracker crust, paired with sweet apples and creamy cheesecake, deliver a nostalgic taste that reminds you of cozy autumn afternoons and family gatherings.
  • Quick and Flexible Dessert: From prep to baking, this recipe offers a relatively quick solution for impressive desserts, perfect for impromptu gatherings, potlucks, or weekend family treats that everyone will adore.

Everything You Need For Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a classic sweet and crunchy base with a hint of graham flavor.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
  • Cinnamon: Brings a warm, aromatic spice that complements the apple and cheesecake flavors.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melts to create a cohesive and crisp crust structure.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates the rich, smooth, and tangy base of the cheesecake.
  • Sugar: Balances the tanginess of cream cheese and adds sweetness.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Sour Cream: Contributes to a creamy texture and adds subtle tanginess.
Apple Topping:
  • Apples: Fresh, crisp fruit that adds natural sweetness and texture to the dessert.
  • Brown Sugar: Creates a caramel-like sweetness and helps the apples soften.
  • Cinnamon: Enhances the apple's natural flavor with warm, spicy notes.
  • Lemon Juice: Prevents apple browning and adds a bright, fresh accent.
  • Butter: Helps create a rich, glossy apple topping.

How To Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step 1: Craft the Crunchy Crust

Blend graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a mixing bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Use your fingertips to press the crumbly goodness firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined springform pan. Pop it into the oven preheated to 325°F and bake for 10 minutes. Let the crust cool completely while you prep the next magical layer.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Base

Grab your electric mixer and beat cream cheese until smooth and dreamy. Gently fold in:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Eggs (one at a time)
  • Sour cream

Blend until the mixture becomes silky and luxurious, with no lumpy surprises.

Step 3: Prepare Spiced Apple Topping

Slice fresh apples into thin, delicate pieces. Toss them with:
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Lemon juice

Step 4: Assemble the Delightful Layers

Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust. Carefully arrange the spiced apple slices on top in a beautiful pattern.

Step 5: Create Crumbly Streusel Topping

Mix together:
  • Flour
  • Rolled oats
  • Brown sugar
  • Cold butter

Sprinkle this heavenly crumble over the apple layer, covering it completely.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven at 325°F. Bake for about 60-70 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. The top should turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake rest inside for an hour to prevent cracking. Remove and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully release the springform pan. Slice with a warm knife and serve chilled. Optional: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Helpful Tips For Apple Crumble Cheesecake

  • Select Quality Ingredients: Choose ripe, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tartness in your cheesecake.
  • Prevent Crust Sogginess: Let the graham cracker crust cool completely before adding cheesecake filling to maintain a crisp, sturdy base.
  • Boost Cinnamon Flavor: Toast the graham cracker crumbs briefly before mixing with butter to enhance the warm, aromatic spice notes in the crust.
  • Room Temperature Matters: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and other dairy ingredients are at room temperature for smoother, lump-free cheesecake batter.
  • Customize Dietary Needs: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives or use almond flour for a low-carb version of this decadent dessert.

Store Apple Crumble Cheesecake The Right Way

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and prevents absorption of other food odors.
  • Wrap Carefully: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing to maintain its creamy texture and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze Option: Slice the cheesecake and wrap individual portions in freezer-safe wrap, keeping them delicious for up to 2 months when stored properly.
  • Thaw Gently: Remove frozen cheesecake from the freezer and let it defrost slowly in the refrigerator overnight, preserving its original taste and smooth consistency.

Great Pairings For Apple Crumble Cheesecake

  • Pair with Spiced Mulled Wine: Complement the warm, cinnamon-infused crust with a rich, spiced mulled wine that echoes the dessert's cozy autumn flavors.
  • Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Top the cheesecake with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream to balance the tangy cheesecake and add a cool, smooth contrast.
  • Match with Cinnamon Espresso: Enjoy a freshly brewed cinnamon-dusted espresso alongside the dessert, which will enhance the apple and cinnamon notes while cutting through the richness.
  • Accompany with Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake to intensify the apple and buttery graham cracker crust flavors, creating a decadent taste experience.
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Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent apple crumble cheesecake marries classic dessert flavors in a spectacular fusion of creamy richness and warm spices. Sweet cinnamon-kissed apples nestled atop a smooth cream cheese base create a heavenly dessert that delights from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1 12 cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted

Filling and Flavor Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Crumble Topping Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Crush graham crackers into fine, uniform crumbs, ensuring a consistent texture for the crust foundation.
  2. Combine cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, creating a fragrant and sweet base mixture.
  3. Drizzle melted butter over the dry ingredients, stirring until the components bind together with a moist, sand-like consistency.
  4. Transfer the crumb mixture into the springform pan, using the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed measuring cup to firmly compact and evenly distribute the crust.
  5. Slide the prepared pan into a preheated oven calibrated to 325F (163C), allowing the crust to bake and set for approximately 10 minutes.
  6. Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely, creating a sturdy and crisp foundation for the cheesecake layers.

Notes

  • Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the crust mixture for extra warmth and depth of flavor that complements the apple and cinnamon notes.
  • Press the crust mixture evenly and firmly to create a compact base that won’t crumble when slicing the cheesecake.
  • Let the crust cool completely before adding the next layer to prevent moisture and ensure a crisp, stable foundation for your decadent dessert.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 359
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 82mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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