Description
This Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of apple crisp. It features a graham cracker crust, a smooth and tangy cheesecake filling, a layer of cinnamon-spiced apples, and a buttery oat topping. It’s the perfect dessert for fall gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion when you want a show-stopping treat. This recipe balances the sweetness of the apples and topping with the tartness of the cheesecake, creating a harmonious and unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (16 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination work well)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds – optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare the graham cracker crust. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter. Mix well until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can incorporate too much air into the batter, leading to cracks during baking.
Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
Step 5: Prepare the apple layer. In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with the ground cinnamon until the apples are evenly coated. Arrange the cinnamon-coated apples in a single layer on top of the cheesecake batter.
Step 6: Make the oat topping. In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, rolled oats, flour, and chopped nuts (if using). Mix well with a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 7: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple layer. Ensure the apples are well covered with the topping.
Step 8: Bake the cheesecake. Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the cheesecake with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Step 9: Cool the cheesecake. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking. Then, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Step 10: Chill the cheesecake. Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
Step 11: Remove from the springform pan. Before serving, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the sides of the pan.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This recipe is a delightful combination of two classic desserts, resulting in a creamy, comforting, and flavorful treat. The textures are wonderful, from the crunchy crust to the smooth cheesecake and the crumbly topping. It’s perfect for special occasions and is always a crowd-pleaser. The warm spices and sweet apples evoke a cozy feeling, making it an ideal dessert for fall and winter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Dust with a light coating of powdered sugar before serving.
- Pair with a warm beverage like coffee, tea, or apple cider.
Tips:
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth and lump-free cheesecake filling.
- Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter, as this can cause it to crack during baking.
- If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the cheesecake with aluminum foil.
- Cool the cheesecake slowly to prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set completely.
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter in the graham cracker crust.
- Experiment with different types of apples, such as Gala or Fuji, for a unique flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cheesecake batter for a brighter flavor.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours, 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 450-550 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: 6-8g
- Sodium: 200-250mg
DRINK Rating:
This dessert pairs well with a dessert wine such as a late-harvest Riesling or a Moscato d’Asti. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling cider or a spiced herbal tea. The sweetness of the drink complements the rich flavors of the cheesecake and apple crisp topping.
Conclusion
This Apple Crisp Cheesecake recipe offers a delightful twist on classic desserts. With its creamy filling, spiced apples, and buttery oat topping, it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering. While it requires a bit of time and patience, the result is well worth the effort. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of crust instead of graham crackers?
A: Yes, you can use other types of cookie crumbs, such as vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies. Alternatively, you can make a traditional pie crust for a flakier base.
Q2: What can I substitute for nuts in the oat topping?
A: If you have a nut allergy or simply don’t prefer nuts, you can omit them altogether or substitute them with other ingredients like shredded coconut or extra oats.
Q3: How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
A: To prevent cracking, avoid overmixing the batter, cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door ajar, and ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
Q4: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead of time is recommended. This allows the cheesecake to set completely and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a better overall taste and texture.
Q5: What is the best way to store leftover cheesecake?
A: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
