Apple Crumble Cheesecake: A Match Made in Dessert Heaven

What happens when you combine the silky texture of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of apple crumble? You get Apple Crumble Cheesecake—a dessert that blends the best of both worlds. This indulgent treat features a creamy cheesecake layer sitting on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with tender spiced apples and a crisp, golden oat crumble. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you’re craving a warm and cozy dessert.

Apples and cinnamon are a timeless pairing, and their inclusion in this cheesecake adds a touch of nostalgia to every bite. Whether you’re a fan of traditional cheesecakes or fruit-forward desserts, this recipe is sure to impress. The added crumble topping not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful contrast in texture, making this dessert irresistibly dynamic.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantity
For the Crust
Graham crackers (crumbled)1 ½ cups
Unsalted butter (melted)6 tablespoons
Brown sugar2 tablespoons
For the Cheesecake Layer
Cream cheese (softened)24 ounces (3 blocks)
Granulated sugar¾ cup
Sour cream½ cup
Vanilla extract1 teaspoon
Large eggs3
For the Apple Topping
Apples (peeled, diced)3 medium
Granulated sugar3 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon1 teaspoon
Lemon juice1 teaspoon
For the Crumble Topping
Rolled oats½ cup
All-purpose flour½ cup
Brown sugar½ cup
Unsalted butter (cold, cubed)¼ cup

Ingredient Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a more pronounced flavor or sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for added sweetness.
  • For the crumble, substitute oats with chopped nuts like pecans for extra crunch.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Golden Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Equipment Needed

  • Springform pan (9-inch): Ensures the cheesecake holds its shape and is easy to remove.
  • Mixing bowls: For preparing the crust, filling, and toppings.
  • Electric mixer: Creates a creamy and lump-free cheesecake batter.
  • Peeler and knife: To prep the apples for the topping.
  • Spatula: Helps spread the cheesecake layer evenly and scrape down the bowl.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer.
  4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add sugar and continue mixing until fully combined.
  3. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract, then add the eggs one at a time, beating until just incorporated.
  4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.

3. Prepare the Apple Topping

  1. In a bowl, toss the diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
  2. Spread the spiced apples over the cheesecake layer.

4. Make the Crumble Topping

  1. In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apple topping.

5. Bake the Cheesecake

  1. Bake the cheesecake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
  2. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for one hour.

6. Chill and Serve

  1. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.
  2. Run a knife around the edges before releasing the springform pan. Serve slices as-is or with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.
Sweet Crumble Bite

Tips and Variations

  • Prevent Sogginess: Pat the diced apples dry with a paper towel before mixing them with sugar and cinnamon to reduce moisture.
  • No-Bake Option: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling and sautéed apples for a quicker alternative.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture for extra warmth.
  • Mini Cheesecakes: Divide the crust, filling, and toppings into a muffin tin for individual portions.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly irresistible presentation, serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top for a cozy touch. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert duo that’s perfect for cooler evenings. To serve, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between slices for neat portions.

Classic Apple Crumble Slice

Pairings

Apple Crumble Cheesecake pairs beautifully with warm, spiced drinks like chai tea, hot apple cider, or a cinnamon latte. For an adult twist, enjoy it with a glass of dessert wine such as a late-harvest Riesling or an apple-flavored liqueur. If you’re serving this cheesecake at a holiday gathering, a classic mulled wine or spiked cider complements its autumnal flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm crumble topping, heat a slice briefly in the microwave or oven before serving.

Nutritional Information

NutrientPer Serving (1 slice)
Calories450
Total Fat29g
Saturated Fat17g
Carbohydrates40g
Protein7g
Allergen WarningsContains dairy, eggs, gluten (if using traditional crust)

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines the best of creamy and crunchy textures, making it an unforgettable dessert that’s as comforting as it is impressive. The spiced apples and buttery oat crumble elevate the classic cheesecake into something special, perfect for any occasion or season.

Whether you’re looking for a festive dessert for the holidays or a cozy treat for a family dinner, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today and share your results—you’ll be proud to show off this stunning and delicious creation!

Apple Crumble Cheesecake: A Match Made in Dessert Heaven

Recipe by Karen Allen
Servings

12

slices
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

1

hour 

10

minutes
Total time (including chilling)

5

hours 

40

minutes

Ingredients

  • 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 Topping: 3 medium apples (peeled, diced), 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 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 cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and eggs to create the cheesecake filling. Pour over crust.
  • Top with spiced apple mixture, then sprinkle with crumble topping.
  • Bake for 60–70 minutes. Cool in the oven, then chill for 4 hours or overnight.

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