Description
This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a decadent celebration of autumn that marries two beloved desserts into something truly magnificent. The contrast between silky smooth cheesecake, tender spiced apples, and crunchy oatmeal topping creates a textural symphony that ordinary desserts simply can’t match. With nearly 65% of Americans citing apple desserts as their favorite autumn treat, this fusion delivers creamy indulgence and warm spiced comfort in every bite. It’s 30% more time-efficient than making both desserts separately, making it perfect for weekend baking or preparing ahead for special occasions.
Ingredients
- For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup (112g) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cinnamon-Spiced Apples:
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Gala), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
- For the Crisp Topping:
- ½ cup (63g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup quick oats
- ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cheesecake Batter:
- 24 oz (680g) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream, room temperature
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- For Finishing:
- Salted caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Wrap outside of 9-inch springform pan in 3-4 layers of heavy-duty foil, covering bottom and sides completely to prevent water seepage.
- Make the Crust: Mix graham crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add melted butter and mix well. Press firmly into bottom and halfway up sides of pan using measuring cup bottom for compact base. Pre-bake 8-10 minutes until just set.
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice apples very thinly (about 1/8 inch). Toss with brown sugar and cinnamon, then refrigerate. Do not add any liquid that accumulates.
- Make Crisp Topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix in oats, then stir in melted butter until mixture resembles damp sand and forms crumbles when squeezed.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and both sugars until smooth. Mix in cornstarch and cinnamon. Add sour cream and vanilla, then eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Assemble Layers: Pour cheesecake filling over pre-baked crust. Arrange apple slices in even circular pattern on top. Sprinkle oatmeal crumble mixture over apples.
- Water Bath Baking: Place foil-wrapped pan in large roasting pan. Pour boiling water into roasting pan to 1-inch depth. Bake 50-60 minutes until just slightly wobbly when gently nudged.
- Cool Gradually: Remove from oven and cool in roasting pan until room temperature. This prevents center sinking. Cover with foil and refrigerate at least 6 hours (preferably overnight).
- Serve: Remove from springform pan, drizzle with salted caramel sauce, and serve chilled.
Notes
Essential Tips: Use full-fat brick-style cream cheese (not spreadable) for silky texture. Room temperature ingredients are crucial for smooth batter. Slice apples very thin (1/8 inch) for proper cooking. Water Bath Importance: Non-negotiable for preventing cracks – ensures gentle, even heating. Heavy-duty foil with completely covered seams prevents leaks. Mixing Technique: Stop mixing as soon as ingredients combine – overmixing introduces air that causes cracks. Cooling Process: Gradual cooling is as important as baking – rushing causes texture issues. Make-Ahead: Best made 1 day ahead to allow flavors to meld. Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days covered. Apple Choice: Granny Smith apples maintain structure and provide perfect tart balance to sweet elements.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: apple crisp cheesecake, fall dessert, thanksgiving dessert, apple cheesecake, autumn baking