If you’re in the mood for a dessert that perfectly balances a rich, creamy texture with warm, spiced apple goodness, you’ve just found your next favorite treat. This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delicious twist on the classic cheesecake, featuring a luscious layer of tender apple filling nestled between a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese batter, all crowned with a beautifully crunchy crumble topping. With every bite, the cozy spices and the tangy cream cheese dance together to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s ideal for any occasion.

Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is surprisingly straightforward, yet each component plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the crisp apples and warm spices to the creamy filling and crunchy crumble, every element is thoughtfully chosen to deliver that perfect bite.

Apples: Five medium apples provide the fresh, tender fruit base—peeling and coring them makes sure every bite is smooth.
Brown sugar: Used both in the apple filling and crumble to add deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: Classic fall spices that infuse warmth and depth throughout the cheesecake.
Lemon juice: Adds a touch of brightness to balance the sweetness and keeps the apples fresh-looking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is essential for the crust, apple filling, and crumble topping to achieve richness and crumbly texture.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the apple filling and stabilize the cheesecake batter.
Graham cracker crumbs: The base of the crust, providing buttery crunch and subtle sweetness.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling, it must be room temperature for a smooth, creamy result.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the cheesecake’s flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.
Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess, making the cheesecake filling irresistible.
Eggs: Bind the filling together without making it too dense.
Flour and oats: Combined in the crumble topping to give a crispy, hearty crunch.
Granulated sugar: Used sparingly to balance flavors both in crust and filling.
Kosher salt: A pinch rounds out and enhances all the sweet elements.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

First, peel, core, and slice your apples into medium-thick pieces. An apple peeler can speed up this step, but it’s also relaxing to do by hand. Next, soften the flavor in a saucepan by gently melting butter with water, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and just a pinch of salt. Adding the sliced apples, stir carefully to coat the fruit without breaking it, then cover and cook on medium-low until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. To finish, stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the filling nicely, then allow it to cool completely so it won’t disrupt the cheesecake layers.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

The crust sets the delicious foundation for this Apple Crumble Cheesecake. Crush the graham crackers finely using a food processor or by hand with a rolling pin inside a sealed bag. Combine the crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into the base of a parchment-lined 10-inch springform pan. Bake it briefly at 350°F until golden and fragrant, then let it cool completely before layering the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Create the Cheesecake Filling

Lower your oven to 300°F to prepare for baking the cheesecake. Beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until luxuriously smooth and creamy. Incorporate the sour cream next for a perfect balance of tanginess and richness. Lightly whisk the eggs separately to avoid overbeating, then fold them into the batter just until combined. Finally, sift in cornstarch for firmness without heaviness, creating a velvety filling that sets beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumble Topping

Mix together flour, oats, cinnamon, salt, brown sugar, and melted butter until an inviting crumbly texture forms. This topping will bake to golden perfection, adding a crisp contrast to the smooth cheesecake and tender apples.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spread half of the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust, then layer the cooled apple filling on top, spreading gently to keep the slices intact. Pour the remaining cheesecake filling over the apples and smooth the surface carefully. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously, creating a rustic, inviting appearance. Bake at 300°F for about an hour, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—this ensures a creamy, not overcooked, texture. Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven before chilling overnight to develop its full flavor and lovely sliceability.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with warm caramel sauce to amplify the sweetness and add a beautiful gloss. Toasted pecans or walnuts scattered over the crumble bring additional crunch and nutty flavor, making each bite a delightful surprise.

Side Dishes

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For those who enjoy fruity contrasts, a side of spiced pear compote or even a cup of hot cinnamon tea complements the dessert’s warm spices perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cheesecake in individual glass jars layered with apple filling and crumble topping for a fun twist at gatherings. Another charming idea is to plate slices with a cinnamon stick garnish and a few fresh apple slices for added freshness. Whatever presentation style you choose, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked, cover the Apple Crumble Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps wonderfully fresh for up to four days, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying in delightful portions throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesecake for longer storage. Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. When stored properly, it maintains its flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to retain the best creamy consistency.

Reheating

While cheesecake is typically enjoyed chilled, if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let the piece sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture and cause the crumble topping to lose its crispness.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work wonderfully because they hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

Yes, a springform pan is ideal for cheesecakes because it allows you to remove the sides without disturbing the delicate layers. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment, but removing the cheesecake will be trickier.

Can I prepare the apple filling and crumble topping in advance?

Definitely! Both the apple filling and crumble topping can be made a day or two ahead and refrigerated separately. This helps streamline assembly and lets the flavors meld even more.

What if I don’t have sour cream for the cheesecake filling?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a similar tang and creamy texture. Just be sure to use full-fat versions for the best results.

How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

To minimize cracking, bake the cheesecake at a lower temperature, avoid overmixing the batter, and let it cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked open. These steps help maintain the cheesecake’s smooth surface and tender texture.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is an absolute celebration of cozy flavors and comforting textures that never fails to bring smiles around the table. If you want to wow your friends or treat yourself to a dessert full of love, this recipe is a must-try. Trust me when I say, once you make this Apple Crumble Cheesecake, it will quickly become your go-to dessert for any special occasion or just because moments.