Apple Pie Cheesecake: The Ultimate Fall Dessert Fusion
Apple Pie Cheesecake combines two all-time favorite desserts into one decadent treat. It starts with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a creamy cheesecake layer, topped with cinnamon-spiced apples, and finished with a buttery crumble or lattice pie crust. This dessert brings together the silky texture of cheesecake and the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie, making it the perfect dessert for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations.
While apple pie is a symbol of tradition and nostalgia, cheesecake is the epitome of creamy indulgence. Together, they create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this Apple Pie Cheesecake will be a hit at any table.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
For the Crust | |
Graham crackers (crumbled) | 1 ½ cups |
Unsalted butter (melted) | 6 tablespoons |
Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
For the Cheesecake Layer | |
Cream cheese (softened) | 24 ounces (3 blocks) |
Granulated sugar | ¾ cup |
Sour cream | ½ cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Large eggs | 3 |
For the Apple Pie Topping | |
Apples (peeled, thinly sliced) | 3 medium |
Granulated sugar | 3 tablespoons |
Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Nutmeg (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
For the Crumble Topping | |
Rolled oats | ½ cup |
All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
Brown sugar | ½ cup |
Unsalted butter (cold, cubed) | ¼ cup |
Ingredient Notes
- Apples: Use a mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp or Fuji) apples for a balanced flavor.
- Crust: Swap graham crackers for gingersnaps for a spicier base.
- Crumble Topping: Omit oats and replace with a lattice crust using pie dough for a more traditional pie feel.
Equipment Needed
- Springform pan (9-inch): Essential for the layered structure of the cheesecake.
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the crust, cheesecake batter, and toppings.
- Electric mixer: Ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Peeler and knife: For preparing the apples.
- Spatula: To spread the layers evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated. Do not overmix to avoid cracking.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Prepare the Apple Pie Topping
- In a bowl, toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice.
- Arrange the spiced apples on top of the cheesecake layer in an even layer.
4. Add the Crumble Topping
- Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and cold butter in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apple layer.
5. Bake the Cheesecake
- Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool for one hour.
6. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.
- Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan before serving. Garnish with a drizzle of caramel sauce or whipped cream if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Lattice Top Variation: For a true apple pie aesthetic, replace the crumble with strips of pie dough arranged in a lattice pattern. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar before baking.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the apple topping for an adult twist.
- Individual Servings: Make mini cheesecakes in a muffin tin for portion-controlled treats.
- Crack Prevention: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath for even cooking and a crack-free surface.
Serving Suggestions
Apple Pie Cheesecake is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it further with toppings. Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for a rich, buttery flavor, or pair it with a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream. For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the top. Serve with a side of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent dessert experience.
Pairings
The warm, spiced flavors of Apple Pie Cheesecake pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A glass of spiced mulled wine or warm apple cider complements the dessert’s autumnal vibe. For coffee lovers, try serving it with a caramel macchiato or a cinnamon latte. If you prefer tea, a chai latte or a spiced herbal tea, such as rooibos or cinnamon apple, will perfectly enhance the cozy flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If freezing, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm apple pie topping, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
---|---|
Calories | 470 |
Total Fat | 30g |
Saturated Fat | 17g |
Carbohydrates | 42g |
Protein | 7g |
Allergen Warnings | Contains dairy, eggs, gluten (if using traditional crust) |
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mash-up, bringing together the creamy decadence of cheesecake and the comforting warmth of apple pie. The buttery crust, spiced apple topping, and crunchy crumble (or lattice crust) create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Perfect for any season but especially beloved in fall, this dessert is sure to become a favorite at your table. Try this recipe today and wow your friends and family with this irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Share your creations online and let us know how you made this dessert your own!
Apple Pie Cheesecake: The Ultimate Fall Dessert Fusion
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minutesIngredients
Crust: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted), 2 tablespoons brown sugar.
Cheesecake Layer: 24 ounces cream cheese (softened), ¾ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup sour cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 3 large eggs.
Apple Pie Topping: 3 medium apples (peeled, sliced), 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional), 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
Crumble Topping: ½ cup rolled oats, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup cold unsalted butter (cubed).
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Prepare and bake the crust for 10 minutes.
- Mix cheesecake batter and pour over crust. Top with spiced apple slices.
- Add crumble topping and bake for 60–70 minutes. Cool and chill for at least 4 hours.