Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and warm apple crumble, creating a dessert that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart. This dish offers a luscious layer of smooth cheesecake that is perfectly complemented by tender apples spiced with cinnamon, all topped off with a crispy crumble. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is nothing short of intoxicating, making it a must-try for any dessert lover. This recipe, with its step-by-step instructions, is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike, providing an easy guide to creating a stunning dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake checks all the boxes for a perfect dessert. It combines the richness of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples and a crunchy crumble topping. What’s more, it requires minimal prep time, and you probably already have many of the ingredients in your pantry! It’s an excellent dish for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a weekend treat. Plus, the process is straightforward and forgiving, making it approachable for even the busy home cook.

Ingredients for Apple Crumble Cheesecake

To craft your own Apple Crumble Cheesecake, gather the following ingredients, which not only promise a delightful flavor but also fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas:

• For the Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs

• For the Apple Filling:

  • 4 apples, peeled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• For the Crumble Topping:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s break down the steps to make your Apple Crumble Cheesecake.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). As it warms up, grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure your cheesecake comes out effortlessly.

2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix together your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook until the apples become tender. Once done, let them cool slightly while you continue with the cheesecake batter.

4. Create the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the sugar, mixing well. Follow up by blending in the sour cream and vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is blended in completely before adding the next.

5. Layer the Mixture: Pour half of your cheesecake batter onto the cooled crust. Smooth it out, then layer the cooked apples evenly over this. Finally, pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apples, making sure to cover them well.

6. Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for the crumble. Mix until it resembles coarse crumbs, then sprinkle it generously over the cheesecake.

7. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and just slightly jiggly. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool down gradually.

8. Chill Before Serving: After cooling, transfer the cheesecake to your refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. This step is crucial for the cheesecake to set and develop its rich flavors fully. Once chilled, remove it from the springform pan, slice, and serve.

Tips & Tricks

To take your Apple Crumble Cheesecake to the next level, consider these tips and tricks:

• Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
• Add a Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble for added texture and flavor.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the apple filling for an extra depth of flavor.
• Serving with Syrup: Drizzle some caramel or whipped cream over the cheesecake when serving for a sweet finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving, presentation is key! Plate your slices of Apple Crumble Cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with a sprinkling of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant touch. Fresh apple slices can also be arranged alongside for a vibrant, colorful plate. Complement this dessert with a warm cup of chai or cinnamon tea, enhancing the cozy vibes it brings to any gathering.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of this delicious Apple Crumble Cheesecake offers a treat of indulgence. While exact caloric content can vary based on portion size and ingredients, expect it to have approximately 400 calories per slice. With its balance of cream cheese, apples, and wholesome oats, it can be a satisfying dessert option that pleases your sweet cravings without overwhelming your diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Storing Tips & Variations for Apple Crumble Cheesecake

If you have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist!), store your Apple Crumble Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, allowing for storage up to 2 months. If you wish to try variations, consider swapping the apples for pears or adding slices of caramelized bananas for a twist on the classic recipe.

Conclusion for Apple Crumble Cheesecake

There’s no better time than now to try your hand at making this Apple Crumble Cheesecake! Its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and warmth is bound to impress anyone who takes a bite. So don your apron, roll up your sleeves, and start baking this delightful creation today. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of crust?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a cookie crust made from Oreos or a nut-based crust for a gluten-free version.

2. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best to make the cheesecake a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

4. What types of apples work best for this recipe?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Gala, works well to balance the flavors in the dish.

5. Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative with other fruits like pears or berries mixed in with the apples for a unique flavor profile.

Print Recipe

Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and warm apple crumble, topped with a crispy crumble for a tantalizing dessert experience.

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Cook Time1 hour hr

Total Time3 hours hrs

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Apple Crumble Cheesecake, Baked Cheesecake, cheesecake, comfort food, Dessert Recipe

Servings: 10 slices

Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs For the crust base.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted To bind the crumbs.

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the cheesecake.
• 1 cup sour cream For added creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor.
• 3 large eggs Bind the cheesecake filling.

For the Apple Filling

• 4 apples, peeled and sliced Use a mix of sweet and tart apples.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar Sweeten the apples.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth to the apple filling.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice Prevents browning of the apples.

For the Crumble Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Base of the crumble topping.
• 1/2 cup rolled oats For texture in the topping.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar Adds a caramel-like flavor.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted To bind the crumble mixture.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Enhances the crumble topping flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
• In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Apple Filling

• In a saucepan over medium heat, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook until the apples become tender, then let them cool slightly.

Cheesecake Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add sugar, then blend in sour cream and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, blending after each addition.

Assembly

• Pour half of the cheesecake batter onto the cooled crust. Smooth it out and layer the cooked apples evenly. Finally, pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apples.

Crumble Topping

• In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle generously over the cheesecake.

Baking

• Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave it inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.

Chilling

• Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. Remove from the springform pan, slice, and serve.

Notes

For best results, use a mix of sweet and tart apples, and consider adding chopped nuts to the crumble for added flavor.