If you’re looking for a dessert that combines all the cozy flavors of fall, then you’re in for a treat with this Apple Crisp Cheesecake. This recipe is a heartwarming blend of creamy vanilla cheesecake, spiced cinnamon apples, and a crunchy oat topping, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings everyone together—perfect for family gatherings or even just to brighten up a busy weeknight.

The best part? This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is surprisingly easy to make! I love serving it with a drizzle of salted caramel on top, which takes it to the next level. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become one of your go-to favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake and spiced apples creates a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
Family Favorite: Everyone from kids to grandparents loves this dessert; it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this cheesecake ahead of time, making it perfect for holidays or unexpected guests.
Easy to Customize: With simple swaps and additions, you can make this recipe your own without any fuss.
Comfort Food at Its Best: This dessert is like a warm hug on a plate—a true comfort food that feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Apple Crisp Cheesecake. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust

3 cups graham crumbs
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)

For the Apple Filling

2 large apples (I recommend Granny Smith or Gala)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

For the Oat Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (63 grams)
1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup quick oats
1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling

24 ounces full-fat cream cheese (680 grams) (room temperature)
3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml) (room temperature)
3 large eggs (room temperature)
boiling water (for the water bath)
salted caramel sauce for drizzling

Variations

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative based on what you have or prefer. Here are some fun ideas:

Try Different Apples: Use any variety of apples you love—Honeycrisp or Fuji work beautifully too!
Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the oat topping for extra crunch.
Swap the Topping: Replace the oatmeal crumble with crushed cookies for a different flavor profile.
Go Caramel-Free: If you’d prefer a lighter topping, simply dust with powdered sugar instead of using salted caramel.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F (180C or 160C on a fan-forced oven). This step ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly set.

Step 2: Prepare the Springform Pan

Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan in tin foil so that both the bottom and sides are covered. Be sure to wrap it at least 3-4 times—this prevents any water from seeping in during baking. Lightly grease the pan with non-stick cooking spray; this will help your cheesecake release easily later.

Now that we have our ingredients ready and our pan prepped, let’s dive into making this delicious Apple Crisp Cheesecake!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Creating the perfect Apple Crisp Cheesecake can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tips up your sleeve!

Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature ensures a smooth and creamy batter without lumps, leading to a perfectly textured cheesecake.
Don’t skip the water bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps regulate the temperature and prevents cracks. It allows for even cooking, resulting in a luscious, creamy cheesecake.
Cool gradually: After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks on the surface of your cheesecake.
Let it chill overnight: For the best flavor and texture, allow your cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator overnight. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Customize your topping: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or nuts in your crumble topping! A mix of walnuts or pecans adds an extra crunch and depth of flavor.

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Presenting your Apple Crisp Cheesecake can enhance its appeal and make it even more inviting for guests. Here are some ideas to serve this delightful dessert:

Garnishes

Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
Cinnamon dusting: Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for an aromatic touch that ties in with the apple filling.
Fresh apple slices: Arrange thin slices of fresh apples on top or around the plate for a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm pieces of cheesecake, creating a comforting contrast.
Caramel sauce: Drizzle some extra salted caramel sauce over each slice for added indulgence; it’s like adding a sweet hug!
Coffee or chai tea: A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea balances out the sweetness while enhancing flavors with their warm notes.
Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a light contrast to the richness of the cheesecake, making it feel like a well-rounded meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Apple Crisp Cheesecake! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week. With its rich and creamy texture, it holds up beautifully when stored correctly.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing.
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Slice the cheesecake into individual pieces for easier thawing.
Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Apple Crisp Cheesecake!

Can I use other fruits instead of apples in my Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

Absolutely! While apples give that classic flavor, you can experiment with pears or peaches for a unique twist on this recipe.

How can I make my Apple Crisp Cheesecake even creamier?

To achieve an ultra-creamy texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid overmixing once you add the eggs.

Is there a gluten-free version of Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

Yes! You can substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives or use ground nuts mixed with a bit of sugar as a crust base.

What should I serve with my Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

A drizzle of salted caramel sauce pairs beautifully with this cheesecake, enhancing its flavors. Whipped coconut cream also makes a delightful topping.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Crisp Cheesecake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace of flavors that brings comfort and happiness to any gathering. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply because you deserve a treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to share your creations with me—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!