There’s something magical about combining apples and cheesecake. The warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples layered over creamy cheesecake creates a dessert that feels like autumn on a plate. The crumble topping seals the deal, giving each bite a buttery crunch. The first time I baked this cake, the aroma filled my home and took me right back to my nonna’s kitchen where pies cooled on the counter. Unlike her rustic pies, this cheesecake is my own twist; rich, smooth, and topped with golden crumble. If you enjoy recipes that comfort and impress, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake will quickly become a favorite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesecake is all about balance; tart apples cut through creamy filling while the crumble topping adds texture. It’s a dessert fit for celebrations, but it’s also simple enough for a cozy night at home. What makes it stand out is its versatility: serve it at Thanksgiving, share it at a potluck, or keep it in the fridge for a sweet weekend treat.
If you’ve already enjoyed apple-inspired desserts like this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip, you’ll love how this cheesecake takes the same cozy flavors and elevates them into a showstopper cake.
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Apple Crumble Cheesecake
A creamy cheesecake topped with spiced apples and buttery crumble, perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar (for apples + crumble)
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup cold butter (for crumble)
Instructions
1. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into a springform pan and chill.
2. Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in sour cream. Spread over crust.
3. Cook apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until softened. Spread over cheesecake filling.
4. Mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and cold butter into crumble. Sprinkle on top.
5. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55–65 minutes until center is set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for 4+ hours before slicing.
Notes
Best made a day ahead for full flavor.
Can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Try adding caramel drizzle before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
What You’ll Need For This Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list, most are pantry staples you may already have. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- Melted butter
- Cream cheese (full fat for the best results)
- Granulated sugar and brown sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Apples (Granny Smith works best)
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg
- All-purpose flour
- Rolled oats (for crumble texture)
If you’ve baked hearty dishes like Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage, you know simple pantry staples can create big flavors.
How to Make It
The process comes down to layers:
- Crust – Mix crumbs with melted butter and press into a springform pan. Chill.
- Cheesecake Filling – Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in sour cream. Spread over the crust.
- Apple Layer – Cook apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until tender. Spread evenly over cheesecake filling.
- Crumble Topping – Mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over apples.
- Bake & Chill – Bake until set and golden. Let cool, then chill in the fridge before slicing.
Every slice gives you a creamy base, spiced apple center, and crunchy topping. Much like Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta, it’s a layered dish that rewards patience with depth of flavor.
Tips and Variations
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best balance.
- Don’t overbake; the center should jiggle slightly before chilling.
- Make ahead—it tastes better after resting overnight.
- Switch it up with pears or add a caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.
If you like testing savory variations as much as sweet ones, recipes such as Smashburger Quesadillas prove that a little creativity goes a long way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s better the next day as the flavors meld.
Do I have to peel the apples?
It depends on preference; peeled for a smooth bite, unpeeled for rustic texture.
Can I freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Absolutely. Wrap slices well and freeze up to one month.
What pan works best?
A springform pan makes removing the cheesecake neat and easy.
Conclusion
Apple Crumble Cheesecake isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience. The creamy base, warm spiced apples, and buttery crumble create a comforting yet elegant treat. Whether you serve it on a holiday table or enjoy it quietly at home, it’s bound to impress. For more heartwarming recipes, try my Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe and make dinner as memorable as dessert.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
