Apple Crumble Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is just what you need! Imagine the comforting aroma of baked apples and warm spices filling your kitchen while a creamy cheesecake bakes to perfection. This delightful treat marries the best of both worlds, combining the cozy comfort of spiced apple crumble with the silky sophistication of a classic cheesecake. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or even just a cozy night in when you want to indulge a little.

Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up this showstopper in no time, leaving everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of spiced apples and creamy cheesecake is simply divine.
• Family-friendly: This dessert is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days or special occasions.
• Versatile options: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Stunning presentation: Just wait until you see how beautiful this cheesecake looks on your table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Apple Crumble Cheesecake requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

For the Crust

• 200g digestive or graham crackers
• 50g butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 600g full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
• 200g granulated sugar
• 150g sour cream (14-18%), room temperature
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Apple Mixture

• 150g apple, diced small
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Streusel Crumble

• 100g all-purpose flour
• 80g dark brown sugar
• 70g butter, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Variations

One of the best parts about this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to make it your own. Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel for an extra crunch.
• Switch up the fruit: Try using pears or berries instead of apples for a different flavor profile.
• Use different spices: Experiment with cardamom or pumpkin spice for a unique twist on the classic flavors.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free graham crackers and flour to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap a 9-inch springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Crush 200g of digestive or graham crackers into fine crumbs. In a bowl, mix these crumbs with 50g of melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until set, then let it cool completely before adding any filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Velvety Cheesecake Filling

Make sure your cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature; this helps achieve that smooth texture we all love! Beat 600g of softened cream cheese in a large bowl for about 2-3 minutes until it’s creamy. Gradually add 200g of granulated sugar while mixing until just combined. Scrape down any bits stuck on the sides and mix in 150g sour cream and 1 tablespoon cornstarch on low speed until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Craft the Irresistible Apple Mixture

Peel, core, and dice up 150g of apples into small pieces — about half an inch will do just fine! In another medium bowl, toss these diced apples with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg. This step infuses your apples with delicious spice flavors that complement both the cheesecake and crumble perfectly.

Step 4: Prepare the Streusel Crumble

In yet another medium bowl, combine 100g all-purpose flour with 80g dark brown sugar and half a teaspoon of cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together well. Then add in 70g of cold cubed butter. Work this mixture with your fingers or a pastry cutter until you achieve coarse crumbs resembling small peas. This will create that lovely crunchy topping!

Step 5: Assemble and Bake (Part 1)

Now comes the fun part! Carefully pour your cheesecake filling over that cooled crust in your springform pan. Place this pan inside a larger roasting pan — we’re going for a water bath here! Pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it’s halfway up the sides of your springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes until it’s almost set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.

Step 6: Add Topping and Finish Baking (Part 2)

Once you’ve removed it from the water bath (be careful!), evenly spoon that delicious apple mixture over your partially set cheesecake layer. Next, sprinkle those crunchy streusel crumbs over everything generously! Return it to the oven without that water bath now; lower your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue baking for another 30-40 minutes until everything is golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

When it’s done baking, turn off your oven but keep that door slightly ajar while letting it cool inside for about an hour. Afterward, remove from oven carefully; take off that foil wrapping too! Let it cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack—this usually takes around two to three hours—before loosely covering it and refrigerating for at least six to eight hours or overnight if you can wait!

Step 8: Serve

When you’re ready to serve this masterpiece, run a thin knife around the edge first before unlatching that springform collar — trust me; it helps release it cleanly! Slice with a sharp knife (a warm knife works wonders here) and serve as-is or garnish with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or even some vanilla bean ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Creating the perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature cream cheese and sour cream helps achieve a smooth, lump-free filling. This ensures even mixing and a creamy texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the cheesecake ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles, which may lead to cracks during baking.

• Water Bath Importance: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps maintain moisture and prevents it from drying out. It also promotes even cooking, resulting in a silky texture.

• Cool Gradually: Allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks. This step is essential for achieving that beautiful smooth top.

• Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate your cheesecake overnight. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and results in a firmer slice.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Serving your Apple Crumble Cheesecake can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this stunning dessert that will wow your guests.

Garnishes

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over individual slices for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the apple flavors.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of light whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The classic pairing! Vanilla bean ice cream provides a creamy contrast that enhances each bite of the cheesecake.
• Fresh Berries: A side of mixed fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries adds a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of the dessert.
• Spiced Tea or Coffee: Offering spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee complements the warm spices in the cheesecake and makes for a comforting experience.
• Apple Compote: Serve with warm apple compote on the side for an extra apple kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dessert.

Now you’re ready to enjoy or serve this delectable Apple Crumble Cheesecake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors over several days. You can easily make it in advance for gatherings or simply enjoy it as a sweet treat throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days.
• To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, store it without any toppings if possible.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, enjoy the cheesecake chilled straight from the fridge.
• If you prefer it warm, place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid overheating to maintain its creamy texture.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I use different fruits in this Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

Absolutely! While apples are classic, you can experiment with pears or berries for a unique twist. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your chosen fruit.

How long does it take to make Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

The total time is about 14 hours and 30 minutes, including cooling and chilling time. However, active preparation and baking time is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is there a way to make this Apple Crumble Cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free ones and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What can I serve with Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. You could also serve it alongside vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

How should I cut this cheesecake for serving?

To achieve clean slices, run a thin knife under hot water before cutting. Wipe the knife after each slice for perfect presentation!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Crumble Cheesecake as much as I do! Its combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy crumble is truly special. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or just because you deserve a sweet treat, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every slice and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you make along the way – happy baking!