Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Crave Again

Why Make This Recipe

Apple crumble cheesecake is a delightful combination of two beloved desserts: apple crumble and cheesecake. It brings together creamy, rich cheesecake and sweet, spiced apples with a crunchy crumble topping. This irresistible dessert is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a sweet treat at home. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

Making this dessert from scratch not only allows you to enjoy fresh, quality ingredients, but it also fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon. Plus, you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a thicker layer of apple filling, extra spices, or something different in the crumble, the options are endless.

How to Make Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Creating this delightful apple crumble cheesecake requires several steps, but don’t worry! I’ll walk you through the process. Just gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a sweet and satisfying baking experience.

Ingredients

To make this delicious apple crumble cheesecake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Crust:

  • 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) sour cream

• Apple Filling:

  • 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
  • ⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Crumble Topping:

  • ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed

Directions

Now let’s get into the step-by-step directions to make this delicious apple crumble cheesecake!

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature for your cheesecake.

2. Mix crust ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and resemble wet sand.

3. Press into pan: Grease a 9-inch springform pan lightly. Pour the crust mixture into the pan and press it firmly into an even layer across the bottom. This will provide a solid foundation for your cheesecake.

4. Bake the crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This step helps to set the crust and enhance its flavor. After baking, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps for a velvety texture.

2. Add sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined.

3. Incorporate eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine the ingredients without incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks in your cheesecake.

4. Fold in sour cream: Once the eggs are incorporated, gently fold in the sour cream until fully mixed in. This adds creaminess to the cheesecake.

5. Pour over crust: Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure it’s even.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Prepare apples: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

2. Add apple layer: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer in the pan. This will create a delicious apple layer that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheesecake.

Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping

1. Mix crumble ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Sprinkle crumble topping: Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple layer. This will create a delicious, crunchy texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake: Carefully place the cheesecake in the oven. Bake for about 60 to 70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It’s better to underbake slightly, as residual heat will continue to bake the cheesecake while it cools.

2. Turn off oven: Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks from forming.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Cool and chill: After cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake from the oven. Allow it to cool on the counter for another hour. Once cool, cover and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This ensures better slicing and flavor development.

How to Serve Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake

When you’re ready to serve your apple crumble cheesecake, run a knife around the edge of the springform pan to loosen it. Carefully remove the sides of the pan.

You can slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream. Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate your dessert even further. This cheesecake is also delightful with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

For an added twist, consider serving slices with a side of warm spiced apple compote or extra sliced apples. The possibilities for serving this cheesecake are as vast as the flavors within!

How to Store Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Storing your cheesecake properly is essential for maintaining its freshness. Here are some simple tips for storing your irresistible apple crumble cheesecake:

1. Cool completely: Before storing, ensure the cheesecake has completely cooled in the refrigerator. This prevents condensation from forming, which could make the crust soggy.

2. Cover tightly: If you have leftovers, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Alternatively, you can place it in an airtight container. Make sure it is securely sealed to avoid absorbing any odors from the refrigerator.

3. Refrigerate: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If it lasts longer than that, it may not be as fresh and flavorful.

4. Freeze for long-term storage: If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the cheesecake. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Tips to Make Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Here are some handy tips to ensure your apple crumble cheesecake turns out perfectly:

1. Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother and creamier batter.

2. Don’t overmix: When adding the eggs to the batter, mix gently and just until combined to avoid introducing too much air. This helps prevent cracks while baking.

3. Add a water bath: To help maintain moisture and temperature, consider placing a baking dish filled with hot water on the shelf below the cheesecake while it bakes. This can yield a smoother texture.

4. Chill overnight: For the best flavor and texture, allow your cheesecake to chill overnight. This also makes it easier to slice.

5. Fresh apples: Use fresh, firm apples for the apple filling. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are excellent choices that provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Variations

While this recipe is delicious as it stands, there are several ways to customize it to suit your taste:

1. Nutty topping: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the crumble topping for added crunch.

2. Different fruits: Experiment with other fruits like pears or berries for a different flavor experience. You can also mix and match fruits for a fun twist.

3. Spices: Use different spices in the apple mixture. Adding nutmeg or allspice can create a warm, spiced flavor.

4. Swirl in caramel: For a decadent touch, swirl some caramel sauce into the cheesecake batter before baking.

5. Chocolate drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cheesecake for an irresistible chocolatey twist.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?

Yes! You can use other types of cookies, such as digestive biscuits or even homemade cookies, to create a crust. Just crush them finely and combine with melted butter and sugar as the recipe directs.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance is ideal as it allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set properly. Just store it tightly covered in the refrigerator.

Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?

While the recipe calls for cream cheese to achieve a creamy texture, you could experiment with mascarpone for a slightly different flavor. However, be mindful that it may change the texture and stability of the cheesecake.

What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?

Cracks can happen, but all is not lost! If this occurs, you can cover the top with a layer of sour cream or whipped cream before serving, or simply enjoy it as is!

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools. A toothpick inserted should come out clean, but if it’s slightly wet, that’s typically okay if it’s mostly firm.

With this easy guide, you’ll find that creating an apple crumble cheesecake is not only fun but incredibly satisfying. The moment you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this dessert is bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and, most importantly, enjoy indulging in each irresistible slice!

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