Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

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Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this decadent Apple Crumble Cheesecake, where creamy cheesecake meets the warm, comforting flavors of spiced apples and the crunch of a buttery crumble topping. Finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce, this show-stopping dessert is perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or a formal dinner party. Follow this detailed recipe for foolproof results.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:
  • 5 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), cored, peeled, and sliced
  • ⅔ cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 4 tablespoons water
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
  • 4 teaspoons cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water
For the Crust:
  • 3 cups graham cracker crumbs (approximately 2 sleeves)
  • 5.2 oz unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • 28 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1¼ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch, sifted
For the Crumble Topping:
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup rolled oats (or quick oats)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ⅓ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3.1 oz unsalted butter, melted
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
Optional Garnishes:
  • Caramel sauce drizzle
  • Powdered sugar dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
  1. Slice the apples: Cut into uniform medium-thick slices to ensure even cooking. Avoid overly thin slices, as they can turn mushy.
  2. Cook the apples: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the water, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Simmer: Add the apple slices to the saucepan, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened but still holding their shape.
  4. Thicken the filling: Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the filling thickens. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Crust
  1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 350°F (180°C). Line a 10-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
  2. Crush graham crackers: Use a food processor for fine crumbs or crush them manually in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.
  3. Mix crust ingredients: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  4. Press into pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass. Bake for 7–8 minutes. Cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
  1. Beat cream cheese: Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  2. Add sour cream: Mix in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
  3. Incorporate eggs: Gradually add the beaten eggs in small batches, mixing gently to avoid over-beating.
  4. Add cornstarch: Sift in the cornstarch and stir until no lumps remain.
Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping
  1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Add butter: Drizzle melted butter into the mixture and stir with a fork until crumbly.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
  1. Layer the filling: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Spread evenly.
  2. Add apples: Spoon the cooled apple filling over the cheesecake layer.
  3. Top with remaining batter: Carefully pour the rest of the cheesecake mixture over the apples, spreading evenly.
  4. Add crumble: Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the cheesecake.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Lower oven temperature: Reduce to 280°F (140°C).
  2. Bake: Place the cheesecake on the middle rack and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center is slightly jiggly.
  3. Cool slowly: Turn off the oven and leave the door ajar to cool the cheesecake gradually for 1–2 hours.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
  1. Refrigerate: Wrap the cooled cheesecake in plastic wrap and chill for at least 5 hours or overnight for the best texture.
  2. Garnish and enjoy: Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy the creamy, spiced goodness!

Tips for Success

  • Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Prevent cracking: Use a water bath or place a pan of hot water on the oven’s lower rack to create steam.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

  • Calories: 720 kcal
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 74g
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 25g
  • Sugar: 55g

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a perfect fusion of rich flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

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