Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

Imagine sinking your fork through layers of buttery apple crumble that gives way to a velvety, rich cheesecake beneath – that’s the magic of this Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe. This extraordinary dessert marries the comforting warmth of a traditional apple crumble with the luxurious creaminess of a classic cheesecake for a truly unforgettable treat. The contrast between the crisp topping and smooth filling creates a dessert that’s impressive enough for special occasions yet comforting enough for casual family gatherings. You’ll learn how to create perfect layers, balance flavors, and achieve that Instagram-worthy presentation that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one showstopping creation that will quickly become your signature dish. The buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumble provides a delightful textural contrast to the silky-smooth cream cheese filling, while the layer of caramelized apples adds a warm, aromatic sweetness that balances the tanginess of the cheesecake perfectly.

What makes this recipe truly special is its impressive presentation despite being surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The components can be made in stages, making it manageable even for those new to cheesecake baking. Each bite delivers multiple flavor experiences – from the crunch of the topping to the tender apples and finally the rich, creamy base.

The versatility of this apple crumble cheesecake dessert also means it works beautifully year-round, though it shines brightest during apple season when you can showcase freshly picked fruit. It’s the perfect way to elevate a traditional apple dessert into something truly spectacular.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons (38g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (24 oz/680g total) cream cheese, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Apple Layer:

• 4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith), peeled, cored and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crumble Topping:

• 3/4 cup (94g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons (85g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup (50g) rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

The high-quality cream cheese forms the foundation of this Apple Crumble Cheesecake, while Granny Smith apples provide the perfect balance of tartness and structure that holds up well during baking.

Pro Tips

Achieving the Perfect Texture: The key to a crack-free cheesecake lies in proper temperature management. Ensure all refrigerated ingredients reach room temperature before mixing – this creates a smoother batter that bakes more evenly. Always use a water bath (bain-marie) when baking your Apple Crumble Cheesecake by wrapping the springform pan in foil and placing it in a larger pan filled with hot water. This gentle, humid heat prevents the cheesecake from drying out or cracking.

Apple Preparation Matters: For the apple layer, slice your apples uniformly thin (about 1/8 inch) so they cook evenly and become tender without releasing too much moisture into your cheesecake. Pre-cooking the apples until just soft but not mushy ensures they won’t release excess liquid during baking, which could make your cheesecake soggy.

The Perfect Crumble: For that irresistible crumble topping, keep your butter cold and work it into the dry ingredients using your fingertips until you achieve pea-sized clumps. Avoid overworking the mixture – those varying sizes of crumbles create the perfect texture contrast. For extra crunch, refrigerate the prepared crumble for 15 minutes before sprinkling it over your Apple Crumble Cheesecake.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and position a rack in the middle. Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water seepage during baking. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of your springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact the crust evenly. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Create the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium-low speed until completely smooth and free of lumps, about 2 minutes. Add sugar and beat until incorporated, scraping down the sides as needed. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until each is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix – this introduces air that can cause cracks. Gently fold in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour until just combined. Pour this velvety mixture over your pre-baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add sliced apples. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Arrange the cooled apple slices in an even layer over the cheesecake filling, leaving any excess liquid behind in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the mixture until it forms various-sized crumbs. Sprinkle this crumble evenly over the apple layer, covering the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake
Place your foil-wrapped springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath. Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 70-80 minutes, until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the Apple Crumble Cheesecake cool gradually for an hour. This slow cooling prevents dramatic temperature changes that could cause cracks.

Step 6: Chill and Serve
Remove from the water bath, discard foil, and let cool completely on a wire rack. Once at room temperature, refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. When ready to serve, run a warm knife around the edges before releasing the springform pan for clean, beautiful slices of your Apple Crumble Cheesecake.

Variations

Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Transform this dessert into a decadent caramel apple experience by adding a layer of thick caramel sauce between the cheesecake filling and apple layer. After baking and cooling, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for an eye-catching finish. The sweet, buttery notes of caramel perfectly complement the tart apples and creamy cheesecake.

Gluten-Free Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Make this recipe accessible to everyone by using gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust. Replace the all-purpose flour in the filling with cornstarch and use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats in the crumble topping. These simple swaps create an equally delicious version without compromising on taste or texture.

Maple Pecan Apple Crumble Cheesecake: For a truly autumnal twist, replace half the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup in the filling and add 3/4 cup chopped pecans to the crumble topping. The nutty crunch and maple sweetness create a dessert that captures the essence of fall flavors and pairs wonderfully with the classic apple crumble elements.

Storage and Serving

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake can be refrigerated for up to 5 days when stored properly. Keep it in the springform pan until ready to serve, or transfer to an airtight container once sliced. Cover loosely with plastic wrap, being careful not to disturb the crumble topping. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months – simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

For an elevated serving experience, warm individual slices very slightly (10-15 seconds in the microwave) to take the chill off and bring out the apple spice aromas. Top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon for an elegant presentation. For a more indulgent option, serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream that slowly melts into the crumble topping.

This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of hot apple cider, caramel latte, or a sweet dessert wine like Sauternes or ice wine for special occasions.

FAQs

Can I make this Apple Crumble Cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert actually benefits from being made 1-2 days in advance, as the flavors have time to meld and develop. The cheesecake needs at least 6 hours to set properly, so plan accordingly.

Why did my cheesecake crack?
Cracks typically form due to rapid temperature changes or overmixing. Always use room temperature ingredients, mix on low speed, use a water bath, and cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar.

Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! While Granny Smith provides ideal tartness and structure, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady apples also work well. Avoid softer varieties like McIntosh that break down too much during baking.

Do I really need a water bath?
For best results, yes. The water bath creates a gentle, humid environment that helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks and a dry texture.

Can I make mini versions of this cheesecake?
Definitely! Use a muffin tin lined with paper liners and reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes. This makes perfect individual portions for parties or gifting.

Conclusion

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is comfort food at its finest — a harmonious marriage of buttery crumble, warm spiced apples, and velvety cheesecake that creates pure dessert magic with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the homey comfort of a traditional apple crumble with the sophisticated indulgence of a perfect cheesecake. Whether served at a holiday gathering, special celebration, or simply as a way to elevate an ordinary weekend, this remarkable dessert promises to become a treasured recipe in your collection, requested time and again by family and friends.

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