Name: Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe You'll Crave Again
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 14 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, full-fat, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup (240ml) full-fat sour cream, room temperature; 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced into ½-inch pieces; ⅓ cup (70g) light brown sugar, packed; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour

Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Crave Again. Have you ever found yourself at a delicious crossroads, torn between the comforting warmth of a classic apple crumble and the luxurious creaminess of a perfectly baked cheesecake? Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share a dessert that elegantly solves this delightful dilemma, bringing the best of both worlds into one unforgettable creation.

This particular dessert isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience, a harmonious blend of two beloved sweet traditions. The apple crumble, with its rustic charm and spiced fruit filling, has long been a staple in British kitchens, evoking memories of cozy afternoons and wholesome goodness. Cheesecake, on the other hand, tracing its roots back to ancient Greece, has evolved into a global symbol of indulgence and celebration, known for its rich, smooth texture.

What makes this combination so utterly captivating and universally adored? It’s the masterful interplay of textures and flavors: the velvety smooth, tangy cheesecake filling, perfectly nestled atop a buttery graham cracker crust, crowned with a generous layer of spiced, tender apples and a golden, crunchy oat crumble. Every single bite offers a delightful contrast – creamy meets crisp, sweet meets subtly tart – creating a symphony for your taste buds. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s the Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Crave Again, guaranteed to impress guests, elevate any occasion, or simply provide a luxurious treat for yourself. It promises to become a cherished, frequently requested addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (about 180g) graham cracker crumbs (from approximately 12-14 full sheets of graham crackers)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8-ounce/226g each) packages cream cheese, full-fat, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (120ml) full-fat sour cream, room temperature
For the Spiced Apple Topping:
- 3 medium-sized Granny Smith apples (about 500g), peeled, cored, and diced into ½-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves or allspice (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water or apple cider
For the Irresistible Oat Crumble Topping:
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (90g) old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into small cubes
Optional Garnishes:
- Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- A light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar
- Caramel sauce drizzle

Preparing Your Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Phase 1: Crafting the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick spray. It’s a good idea to wrap the bottom and sides of the springform pan securely with a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This will protect your cheesecake from water seeping in during the water bath later, which is essential for a creamy, crack-free cheesecake.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir them well with a fork or whisk to ensure the spices and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the crumbs. This initial dry mix ensures every bite of your crust will be perfectly flavored.
Add Melted Butter: Pour the melted butter over the dry crumb mixture. Stir thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until all the crumbs are moistened and resemble wet sand. It’s crucial that every crumb is coated, as this is what binds your crust together and gives it that delightful buttery texture.
Press into Pan: Transfer the moistened crumbs into the prepared springform pan. Using the bottom of a flat glass or a measuring cup, firmly press the mixture evenly across the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. Aim for a compact, even layer. The firmer you press, the less likely your crust is to crumble when you slice into your finished cheesecake.
Pre-bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and fragrant. Pre-baking helps to set the crust, preventing it from becoming soggy once the filling is added. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack while you prepare the filling. Keep the oven on, but reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) for the cheesecake itself.

Phase 2: Whipping Up the Silky Smooth Cheesecake Filling

Prepare Cream Cheese: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a large mixing bowl with an electric hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese on medium-low speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want it to be completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps. This is a critical step to ensure a velvety cheesecake texture, so be patient and don’t rush it. Make sure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature; cold cream cheese will lead to lumps.
Add Sugars and Flour: Gradually add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and all-purpose flour to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating on low speed until just combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. The flour acts as a stabilizer, helping to prevent cracks in the cheesecake and giving it a firmer set.
Incorporate Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Beat on low speed until they are evenly distributed. The aroma will start to develop, promising a truly delicious treat.
Add Eggs Gradually: Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed only until each egg is just incorporated before adding the next. It is very important not to overmix at this stage once the eggs are added. Overmixing introduces too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up too much during baking and then collapse, leading to cracks. Gentle mixing is the key to that perfectly dense, creamy texture.
Fold in Sour Cream: Finally, gently fold in the full-fat sour cream. Stir just until combined. Sour cream adds a lovely tang and extra creaminess to the filling, balancing the sweetness and richness perfectly. Scrape down the sides of the bowl one last time to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed without overbeating. Set the filling aside as you prepare the apple topping and crumble.

Phase 3: Sautéing the Aromatic Spiced Apple Topping

Melt Butter: In a medium-sized skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Cook Apples: Add the diced Granny Smith apples to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples begin to soften but still retain a slight bite. You don’t want them mushy, as they’ll cook a bit more in the oven.
Add Sugars and Spices: Sprinkle the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and optional ground cloves/allspice over the apples. Stir well to coat the apples evenly. The flour will help thicken the apple juices into a lovely sauce.
Simmer and Thicken: Pour in the lemon juice and water/apple cider. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the apples beautifully. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning too much.
Cool Slightly: Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the apple topping to cool slightly before assembling. You don’t want to add hot apples directly to your cheesecake filling. This spiced apple topping is truly what makes our Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Crave Again so special!

Phase 4: Mixing the Buttery Oat Crumble Topping

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even flavor distribution.
Incorporate Cold Butter: Add the very cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. The colder the butter, the flakier and more distinct your crumble will be. Avoid overworking the dough with your warm hands, as this will melt the butter and make the crumble less distinct.
Set Aside: Set the prepared oat crumble topping aside. It’s now ready to be generously sprinkled over our cheesecake, adding that perfect textural contrast and buttery crunch.

Phase 5: Assembling and Baking Your Masterpiece Cheesecake

Prepare Water Bath: Place the foil-wrapped springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. This is where your water bath will come into play. A water bath (bain-marie) creates a moist, even heat environment, which is crucial for cheesecakes. It prevents cracking and ensures a smooth, creamy texture throughout.
Pour in Filling: Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any large air bubbles that may be trapped in the filling.
Add Apple Topping: Spoon the slightly cooled spiced apple topping evenly over the cheesecake filling. You can spread it gently with the back of a spoon, making sure not to press too hard into the filling.
Sprinkle Crumble: Generously sprinkle the prepared oat crumble topping over the apple layer. Don’t be shy here; this crumble is a star! Ensure it’s evenly distributed for maximum crunch in every bite.
Fill Water Bath: Carefully pour hot water into the larger roasting pan, making sure it comes about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Be very careful not to get any water inside the cheesecake pan itself.
Bake the Cheesecake: Transfer the roasting pan with the cheesecake to the preheated 325°F (160°C) oven. Bake for 60-75 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and appear slightly firm, but the center (about a 2-inch diameter) still jiggles slightly when the pan is gently shaken. The crumble topping should be golden brown and irresistible.
Cooling Process (Crucial!):
1. Initial Cool-down: Once baked, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door ajar for 1 hour. This slow cooling prevents drastic temperature changes that can lead to cracks.
2. Remove from Water Bath: After 1 hour, carefully remove the springform pan from the water bath and the roasting pan. Remove the aluminum foil from around the springform pan.
3. Counter Cool: Place the cheesecake on a wire rack and let it cool completely to room temperature, which usually takes another 2-3 hours. Do not rush this step.

Phase 6: The Essential Chilling and Serving Steps

Refrigerate: Once the cheesecake has reached room temperature, cover it loosely with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 6-8 hours, but ideally overnight. This chilling period is absolutely essential for the cheesecake to firm up properly, develop its full flavor, and allow for clean, beautiful slices. Patience here will be rewarded with the perfect texture for your Irresistible Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Crave Again.
Prepare for Serving: When ready to serve, carefully run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake before releasing the springform collar. This helps prevent sticking and ensures a clean release.
Slice and Garnish: Use a sharp, thin knife, dipping it in hot water and wiping it clean between each slice, to get perfectly neat servings. Serve chilled, perhaps with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage: Leftover cheesecake can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together further!

<h2>Conclusion:</h2>

<p>And there you have it, my fellow dessert enthusiasts! We’ve reached the sweet culmination of our journey. This isn’t just another cheesecake recipe; it’s a culinary masterpiece that seamlessly blends the comforting warmth of a classic apple crumble with the luxurious creaminess of a perfectly baked cheesecake. I truly believe that what makes this recipe a standout, a true must-try, is its incredible symphony of textures and flavors. <strong>Imagine sinking your fork through a delicate layer of spiced, buttery crumble, then into a rich, tangy cream cheese filling, all balanced by tender, cinnamon-kissed apples.</strong> It’s a dessert that offers something for everyone, satisfying both those who crave the traditional and those seeking an elevated twist on their favorites. The delightful crunch of the topping against the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake base creates an unforgettable experience with every single bite.</p>

<h4>Why This Cheesecake Will Be Your New Favorite</h4>
<p>The beauty of this particular creation lies in its harmonious contrast. We’re taking two beloved desserts and marrying them into something even greater than the sum of their parts. This isn’t just a dessert you serve; it’s a statement piece, a conversation starter, and undoubtedly, a crowd-pleaser. The subtle tartness from the apples cuts through the richness of the cheesecake, ensuring each mouthful is perfectly balanced and never overwhelmingly sweet. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventures, the detailed steps we’ve walked through ensure success, promising a stunning dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. <strong>It truly is an experience that will leave a lasting impression on your palate.</strong></p>

<h4>Elevate Your Dessert Experience with These Serving Ideas</h4>
<p>Now, for the best part – enjoying your masterpiece! While this apple crumble cheesecake is absolutely phenomenal on its own, there are myriad ways to elevate the experience further. I personally love serving it slightly chilled, which allows the creamy texture of the cheesecake to truly shine, though a slice warmed gently in the microwave for 30 seconds can also be a divine treat, enhancing the aroma of the spiced apples. A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps infused with a hint of vanilla or a touch of maple syrup, makes for a heavenly accompaniment. <strong>For an extra layer of decadence, consider adding a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream</strong> or a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce right before serving. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprig of fresh mint can also add a beautiful visual touch.</p>

<p>Feeling adventurous? This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! You could experiment with different apple varieties – Granny Smith for more tartness, Honeycrisp for extra sweetness, or a mix of both for complexity. <strong>Consider adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice to your apple mixture for a unique twist on the traditional spice profile.</strong> If you’re a nut lover, folding chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping can add an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor. For a more rustic touch, you could even try substituting a portion of the all-purpose flour in the crumble with oat flour or finely ground nuts. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to truly make this recipe your own signature dessert.</p>

<h4>Your Culinary Adventure Starts Now!</h4>
<p>So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and embark on this incredibly rewarding baking journey. There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from creating something so beautiful and delicious from scratch. <strong>The aroma that will fill your kitchen as this cheesecake bakes is a reward in itself,</strong> a promise of the delightful indulgence to come. Don’t just admire the photos; experience the magic firsthand! Trust me, this dessert is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create lasting memories around your dining table, sharing joy with those you love.</p>

<p>Once you’ve had the pleasure of tasting your homemade creation, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you add any unique twists? What did your friends and family think? <strong>Please share your thoughts, photos, and any brilliant variations you came up with in the comments below.</strong> Your insights not only inspire me but also help our wonderful community of home bakers. I promise you, once you try this incredible dessert, you will understand why it is truly an <strong>Irresistible Apple Crum extractble Cheesecake Recipe Youll Crave Again</strong>. It’s a testament to the fact that some combinations are simply meant to be, creating pure culinary bliss. </p>

<p>Thank you for joining me on this delicious adventure. <strong>Now go forth and bake something truly spectacular!</strong> Your taste buds (and those of your lucky recipients) will thank you.</p>