Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Embrace the cozy flavours of fall with this indulgent Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the spiced sweetness of apple crumble, this dessert is a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dessert is sure to impress.
For a detailed guide on making the perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake with step-by-step instructions and tips, check out this comprehensive Apple Crumble Cheesecake recipe
🧾 Ingredients For Apple Crumble Cheesecake
For the Biscuit Base:
- 300 g digestive biscuits (or graham crackers)
- 115 g unsalted butter, melted
For the Cinnamon-Spiced Apples:
- 20 g unsalted butter
- 500 g eating apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 60 g soft light brown sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 900 g cream cheese, softened
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 200 g sour cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Crumble Topping:
- 100 g rolled oats
- 100 g all-purpose flour
- 50 g brown sugar
- 50 g unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Instructions Of Apple Crumble Cheesecake
1. Prepare the Biscuit Base:
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and bashing with a rolling pin.
- Mix the biscuit crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the base of a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan to form an even layer.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Cook the Cinnamon-Spiced Apples:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
- Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled biscuit base in the springform pan.
- Spoon half of the cinnamon-spiced apples over the cheesecake layer.
- Repeat with the remaining cheesecake filling and apples.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the layers together slightly.
5. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set.
6. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cubed butter and rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Spread the crumble mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool.
7. Assemble and Serve:
- Once the cheesecake has set and the crumble topping has cooled, sprinkle the crumble evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
- Slice and serve chilled.
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🍎 Variations Of The Recipe
The Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a flexible dessert that can be customized in countless ways to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and occasions. One popular variation is the Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake. By replacing the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and using non-dairy sour cream, you can enjoy a fully vegan dessert without sacrificing creaminess. Eggs can be substituted with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers, creating a smooth and indulgent cheesecake suitable for plant-based diets.
For those who love individual servings, consider making Mini Apple Crumble Cheesecakes. Using a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners or mini springform pans, you can create personal-sized portions perfect for parties, picnics, or gift-giving. Simply reduce the baking time to 25–30 minutes and adjust the quantity of filling and crumble accordingly. These mini versions are visually appealing and make serving effortless.
Another delicious twist is the Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the cheesecake before topping it with the crumble adds a layer of decadent sweetness. For a richer flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel to create a perfect sweet-salty balance that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-spiced apples.
For those following a gluten-free diet, you can create a Gluten-Free Apple Crumble Cheesecake by using gluten-free digestive biscuits for the base and certified gluten-free oats in the crumble topping. This ensures everyone can enjoy this indulgent dessert without compromising flavor or texture.
You can also experiment with flavors by adding chopped nuts, raisins, or a splash of brandy or apple liqueur to the apple layer for a more complex taste. Each variation maintains the dessert’s signature combination of creamy cheesecake, tender spiced apples, and crunchy topping while offering new ways to enjoy this beloved recipe.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
The Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a versatile dessert that can be served in many delightful ways to elevate your dining experience. One classic approach is to serve it chilled, straight from the refrigerator, allowing the creamy cheesecake and spiced apples to meld perfectly. Pairing it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an extra layer of richness and lightness that complements the dense, velvety filling. For an indulgent touch, drizzle a little homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top before serving, enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples and adding a luxurious glaze.
For those who enjoy contrast in textures and flavors, consider serving a slice with a scoop of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm spiced apple crumble, creating a comforting and decadent experience. Fresh fruits such as apple slices, berries, or pomegranate seeds also make an excellent garnish, adding freshness, color, and a subtle tartness to balance the richness of the cheesecake.
If you’re hosting a party or prefer an elegant presentation, consider cutting the cheesecake into smaller squares or using mini springform pans or glass jars to serve individual portions. These make it easier for guests to enjoy while also giving a rustic, charming aesthetic. Finally, pairing the cheesecake with a warm cup of coffee, chai, or spiced tea can enhance the cozy, autumnal flavors, making each bite even more memorable. No matter how you serve it, this cheesecake is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Making the perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake requires attention to detail, as small missteps can affect the texture, flavor, and presentation. One common mistake is overmixing the cheesecake batter. While it’s important to blend the ingredients until smooth, overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks on the surface during baking. To prevent this, mix on low speed and stop as soon as the batter is creamy and uniform.
Another frequent error is using apples that are too soft or watery. Some apple varieties release excess moisture when cooked, which can make the cheesecake soggy. Opt for firm, crisp apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, which hold their shape and provide the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness.
Skipping the pre-bake of the biscuit base is another mistake that can compromise the structure of your cheesecake. Pre-baking the base ensures it sets firmly and prevents it from becoming soggy under the wet cheesecake filling.
Improper baking is also a common issue. Baking at too high a temperature can cause the cheesecake to brown too quickly or crack, while underbaking leaves the center unset. Bake at the recommended temperature and check for doneness by gently shaking the pan—the center should wobble slightly but not be liquid.
Lastly, adding the crumble topping before chilling can result in a soggy texture. Always bake and cool the crumble separately, then sprinkle it over the cheesecake just before serving to maintain its crunch.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure that your Apple Crumble Cheesecake is creamy, flavorful, and visually stunning every time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze the cheesecake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake without the crumble topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of apple?
A: Yes, you can use any variety of apples you prefer. Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala will add a different flavour profile to the cheesecake.
Q: How can I make the crumble topping crispier?
A: Ensure that the butter is cold when mixing with the dry ingredients, and bake the crumble until golden brown. For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumble mixture.
✅ Conclusion
The Apple Crumble Cheesecake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that perfectly blends creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crunchy crumble topping into one irresistible treat. Every bite offers a balance of textures: the smooth, velvety cheesecake filling contrasts beautifully with the tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, while the crumble adds a satisfying crunch that makes this dessert unforgettable. Whether you are serving it at a family gathering, a festive holiday, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dessert is sure to impress both in flavor and presentation.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it by using different apple varieties, adding nuts to the crumble, or even drizzling caramel sauce for extra indulgence. The recipe is approachable enough for beginners but also impressive enough for seasoned bakers who want to showcase their skills.
Moreover, this cheesecake keeps well in the refrigerator, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for parties and special occasions. With its perfect harmony of flavors and textures, the Apple Crumble Cheesecake is destined to become a favorite dessert for years to come—a classic recipe that brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of elegance to any table.
