Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Apple Crisp Cheesecake – The Ultimate Fall Dessert

If you’re searching for the perfect fall dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, warm spiced apples, and a buttery crisp topping, look no further than this Apple Crisp Cheesecake. Imagine the velvety texture of classic New York–style cheesecake, layered with tender cinnamon-spiced apples, all finished with a crunchy oat streusel. Every bite is a balance of creamy, sweet, and crisp.

This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, Thanksgiving tables, or anytime you want to impress guests with a show-stopping treat. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make the crust, the cheesecake filling, the apple topping, and the crisp layer step by step—plus pro tips for success, storage instructions, and serving ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Flavor-packed layers – graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, caramelized apples, and a crisp topping.
• Perfect for fall – apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg give it that warm autumn flavor.
• Impressive presentation – looks like it came straight from a bakery, but you can make it at home.
• Make-ahead friendly – ideal for parties since it sets overnight in the fridge.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Apple Topping:

• 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Crisp Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

(Optional: caramel sauce for drizzling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
3. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed glass for an even layer.
4. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Pro Tip: Line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper for easier removal later.

Step 2: Cook the Apple Layer

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir occasionally and cook for 8–10 minutes, until apples are soft but not mushy.
4. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Best Apples to Use: Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, or a mix of both for balance.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Pro Tip: Don’t overbeat the batter—this helps avoid cracks in your cheesecake.

Step 4: Prepare the Crisp Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add cold cubed butter and cut it in with a fork or pastry cutter until mixture becomes crumbly.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Spoon cooked apples evenly over the cheesecake filling.
2. Sprinkle the crisp topping generously over the apple layer.

At this point, your cheesecake should have four layers: crust, cheesecake, apples, and crisp topping.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in the oven at 325°F (160°C).
2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour (this prevents cracking).
4. Remove, cover with foil, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Before serving, drizzle with warm caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
• Slice with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean slices.
• Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Make-Ahead: Best made the day before serving since it needs time to chill and set.

Variations

• Apple Pie Cheesecake: Add a layer of pie crust instead of graham crackers for a more traditional apple pie twist.
• Caramel Pecan Apple Cheesecake: Top with caramel sauce and chopped pecans for extra crunch.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers and oats.

Expert Tips for Success

• Always use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
• Bake in a water bath if you want extra insurance against cracks.
• Don’t skip the chilling time—this is what helps the cheesecake set properly.
• For extra shine, brush apples with a little melted apricot jam before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the ultimate fusion of apple crisp and cheesecake—two beloved desserts in one. The creamy base pairs beautifully with spiced apples and a buttery oat topping, making it an unforgettable dessert for any occasion.