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As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a sweet, comforting dessert that captures the essence of the season. Enter the Apple Crisp Cheesecake—a decadent fusion of creamy cheesecake and the beloved apple crisp. This dessert truly offers the best of both worlds, combining rich flavors and textures that are sure to delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a fall favorite for many reasons. It combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, cinnamon-infused taste of apple crisp. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a special treat, this cheesecake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 8″ or 9″ springform pan
- Cooking spray
- Large bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Medium bowl
- Fork or pastry cutter
- Aluminum foil
- Large roasting pan
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 12 graham crackers, crushed
- 6 tbsp. melted butter
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 c. granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
For the Cheesecake
- 4 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 c. caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 c. granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 c. sour cream
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
For the Topping
- 1/4 c. packed brown sugar
- 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
- 1/4 c. old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 4 tbsp. butter, softened
- 1 apple, peeled and finely chopped
- Whipped topping, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and grease an 8″ or 9″ springform pan with cooking spray.
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan and up the sides.
- In a large bowl using a hand mixer (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), beat cream cheese, caramel, and sugar together until completely smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, then stir in sour cream and vanilla. Add flour, salt, and cinnamon and beat until just combined. Pour mixture over crust.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon, and salt, then cut in butter with a fork or pastry cutter. Scatter apples in an even layer over top of cheesecake, then top with an even layer of the oat topping.
- Wrap the bottom of the pan in aluminum foil and place in a large roasting pan. Pour in enough boiling water to come up halfway in the baking pan. Bake until the center of the cheesecake only slightly jiggles, about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Turn off the oven, prop open the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Remove foil and refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours and up to overnight.
- When ready to serve, drizzle with caramel and serve slices topped with whipped topping, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
- Wrap the pan well with foil to prevent water from seeping into the cheesecake.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven to prevent cracks.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for slightly different flavors. You can also add a dash of nutmeg to the topping for extra warmth. If you’re looking for a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 7g
- Sugar: 30g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Yes, it’s best to make it a day in advance to allow it to set properly.
What kind of apples should I use? Granny Smith apples are a great choice due to their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to embrace the flavors of fall, this Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a must-try. Its blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give it a try and share your thoughts and variations with us. We’d love to hear how it turns out!
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