Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe: A Perfect Combination of Creamy and Crunchy

Introduction

Apple crumble cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for those who love a blend of smooth, creamy cheesecake and a crunchy, cinnamon-spiced apple topping. This indulgent treat combines the best of both worlds—rich, velvety cheesecake and a sweet, crumbly finish. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy a cozy dessert at home, this apple crumble cheesecake recipe is sure to impress.

What Makes Apple Crumble Cheesecake So Special?

Apple crumble cheesecake offers the perfect combination of textures and flavors:

• Creamy Cheesecake Base: The cheesecake filling is smooth, rich, and creamy, made with high-quality cream cheese and sour cream.
• Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Topping: Sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, are spiced with cinnamon and sugar, making them the perfect complement to the cheesecake.
• Crumble Topping: The crumble topping adds a delightful crunch to each bite, making the contrast between the soft cheesecake and crunchy topping irresistible.
• Versatile and Perfect for All Occasions: This dessert is ideal for cozy gatherings, family celebrations, or even just a weekend treat.

If you love cinnamon, try my Churro Cheesecake: A Sweet and Cinnamon Twist for a unique twist on churros.

Key Ingredients for a Perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake

To make your apple crumble cheesecake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Base:

• 1 ½ cups digestive biscuits (or gluten-free biscuits for a gluten-free version), crushed
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 packages (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Apple Topping:

• 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Crumble Topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option)
• ½ cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Crumble Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Crust

Start by making the crust. In a food processor, pulse the crushed digestive biscuits until fine crumbs form. Add the melted butter and pulse again to combine. Press the mixture into the base of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it is evenly spread. Place it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Apple Topping

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized. Set the mixture aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream with a hand mixer until smooth. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared biscuit crust in the springform pan.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake

Spoon the caramelized apple topping over the cheesecake filling, spreading it evenly. Set the cheesecake aside while you prepare the crumble topping.

5. Make the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cheesecake and apple layers.

Make a refreshing dessert with my Air Fryer Sesame Balls Recipe, the perfect Chinese snack.

Baking and Setting Your Apple Crumble Cheesecake

6. Bake the Cheesecake

Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cheesecake should be set but slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour.

7. Cool and Chill

Once the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the flavors to set and meld together.

8. Serve

Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.

Tips for the Best Apple Crumble Cheesecake

• Apple Varieties: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. These apples hold their shape well during baking.
• Texture Tips: Make sure the cheesecake is fully set before serving. Let it chill long enough to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free biscuits for the crust and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the crumble topping.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a touch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple topping for extra depth of flavor.

Get cozy with a bowl of my Nutella Milkshake Recipe

Conclusion

This apple crumble cheesecake is a delicious fusion of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a crunchy crumble topping. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe at your next family gathering or as a cozy dessert to enjoy at home.

This recipe combines simplicity with indulgence, and the clear step-by-step instructions make it easy for anyone to follow. Be sure to use the right apples, achieve the perfect crumble texture, and allow the cheesecake to chill for the best results. Enjoy this irresistible dessert, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!