Combining the comforting flavors of a classic apple crisp with the creamy, luxurious texture of a cheesecake, this Apple Crisp Cheesecake recipe is a gourmet treat that bridges the gap between a beloved autumnal dessert and a decadent cheesecake. Perfect for any season but particularly delightful in the fall, this dessert promises to be a centerpiece at any gathering, captivating your guests with its layered flavors and elegant presentation.
Apple Crisp Cheesecake
The appeal of this dessert lies in its harmonious blend of textures and flavors—from the crumbly, spiced graham cracker crust to the smooth, rich cheesecake filling, topped with a crunchy, buttery apple crisp topping. Each component adds a layer of complexity that makes this cheesecake uniquely irresistible.
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooling time: 5 hours
- Serving: 8-10 servings
- Equipment: 8″ or 9″ springform pan, large roasting pan, aluminum foil
Recipe Title: Apple Crisp Cheesecake
Ingredients for the Crust:
- Cooking spray
- 12 graham crackers, crushed
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Ingredients for the Cheesecake:
- 4 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Ingredients for the Topping:
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup 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)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease your springform pan with cooking spray.
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan.
- For the cheesecake: In another large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese, caramel sauce, and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix in flour, salt, and cinnamon just until combined. Pour this mixture over the crust.
- Prepare the topping: In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, oats, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Scatter the chopped apple evenly over the cheesecake, then sprinkle the oat mixture on top.
- Wrap the bottom of the pan with aluminum foil and place it in a large roasting pan. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.
- Bake until the center is slightly jiggly, about 1 hour 30 minutes. Turn off the oven, prop open the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven, discard the foil, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- When ready to serve, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cheesecake and top with whipped topping if desired.
This Apple Crisp Cheesecake merges the best of both worlds, offering a sumptuous treat that’s both a feast for the eyes and a delight to the palate. Enjoy the layers of flavor and texture that make this dessert a perfect ending to any meal.