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Easy Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Featured in Bake Something Special.

This fall-inspired cheesecake features a spiced base, creamy center, and a crunchy cinnamon apple topping for the ultimate dessert.
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Rose
Updated on Sat, 15 Mar 2025 16:21:01 GMT
A tempting slice of apple cheesecake with a golden crumb topping, served on parchment and paired with fresh apples in the background. Pin it
A tempting slice of apple cheesecake with a golden crumb topping, served on parchment and paired with fresh apples in the background. | lovelylifewithrose.com

The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills the kitchen whenever this Apple Crumble Cheesecake emerges from the oven. This dessert marries the silky smoothness of classic cheesecake with warm spiced apples and a buttery streusel topping - capturing the essence of fall baking in every slice.

The Perfect Balance

Years of recipe testing revealed the ideal harmony between tangy cheesecake, sweet autumn apples, warming spices and crunchy streusel. Each element complements the others, creating layers of texture and flavor in every forkful.

Essential Ingredients

  • Digestive Biscuits: Creates a rich, buttery base
  • Cream Cheese: Room temperature for smoothest results
  • Sour Cream: Adds silky texture and subtle tang
  • Fresh Apples: Choose firm, tart baking varieties
  • Whole Spices: Freshly grated nutmeg and ground cinnamon

Building the Base

Cookie Crust
Process biscuits until finely ground, mix with melted butter and spices
Perfect Press
Use firm pressure with a flat-bottomed measuring cup to create an even layer

Layering Components

Spiced Apples
Toss apple pieces with sugar and spices until evenly coated
Streusel Topping
Work cold butter into flour mixture until pea-sized crumbs form
A slice of a creamy apple pie dessert with a crumbly topping is displayed on a wooden surface, surrounded by fresh apples. Pin it
A slice of a creamy apple pie dessert with a crumbly topping is displayed on a wooden surface, surrounded by fresh apples. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Creating the Filling

Smooth Base
Beat softened cream cheese until completely lump-free
Careful Mixing
Incorporate eggs one at a time for proper texture
Assembly
Layer filling, apples and crumble for distinct textures

Perfecting the Bake

A water bath ensures gentle, even baking. Wrap springform pan thoroughly in foil before placing in the water-filled baking dish. The slow, moist heat produces the smoothest possible texture.

Tips for Success

Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Light-colored baking pans prevent over-browning. Allow adequate time for each step - rushing compromises texture.

Storage Guidelines

Store covered in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. Flavors continue developing over the first 24-48 hours. Best consumed within 5 days.

Variations

Substitute ripe pears for apples or incorporate fresh berries. Add chopped nuts to the streusel for extra crunch. The base recipe adapts well to seasonal fruit.

A slice of cheesecake topped with caramelized apples and a crumbly brown sugar topping, served on a plate beside a red apple. Pin it
A slice of cheesecake topped with caramelized apples and a crumbly brown sugar topping, served on a plate beside a red apple. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Serving Suggestions

The familiar yet elevated flavor combination makes this cheesecake ideal for gatherings. Its elegant presentation draws attention while the taste creates lasting impressions.

Technical Notes

The water bath provides even heat distribution and proper moisture levels. This controlled environment prevents cracking and ensures consistent texture throughout.

Troubleshooting

  • Doneness Test: Center should retain slight wobble when gently shaken
  • Substitutions: Full-fat Greek yogurt can replace sour cream
  • Storage: Freezes well if wrapped properly

Crust Preparation

Finely ground cookies form the foundation. Adding spices directly to the crust creates depth of flavor. Proper compression ensures a sturdy base that holds together when sliced.

Cooling Process

Allow cheesecake to cool gradually in the turned-off oven. Continue cooling at room temperature before refrigerating overnight. Proper cooling prevents texture changes.

A slice of apple cheesecake with a crumbly topping is resting on a wooden board beside a whole red apple. Pin it
A slice of apple cheesecake with a crumbly topping is resting on a wooden board beside a whole red apple. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Advance Preparation

Prepare one day ahead for best results. This allows flavors to develop fully and simplifies entertaining. The finished cheesecake keeps well under refrigeration.

Seasonal Appeal

The combination of warm spices and fresh apples captures autumn's essence. This dessert particularly shines during harvest season and holiday celebrations.

Customization Options

Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or ginger. Incorporate nuts into the streusel. The reliable base recipe supports various flavor enhancements.

Presentation Tips

Clean the knife between slices using hot water for pristine cuts. This attention to detail elevates the visual appeal and ensures each portion looks its best.

Recipe Heritage

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines classic techniques with seasonal ingredients. Its reliable results and impressive presentation make it a treasured recipe for special occasions.

A slice of apple cheesecake topped with a crumbly streusel sits on a plate, revealing layers of creamy filling and spiced apple chunks. Pin it
A slice of apple cheesecake topped with a crumbly streusel sits on a plate, revealing layers of creamy filling and spiced apple chunks. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What’s the purpose of a water bath?
Using a water bath keeps the baking temperature steady and ensures the cheesecake doesn’t crack. Wrapping properly avoids leaks.
→ Why use softened ingredients?
When cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature, they mix more evenly, which creates a smooth texture without lumps.
→ Can you prepare this in advance?
Of course! Cheesecake needs at least 6 hours to firm up, but it’s even better when chilled overnight. You can make it 2-3 days ahead and refrigerate.
→ Why cool the cheesecake slowly?
Letting the cheesecake cool in the oven gradually, with the door open, stops cracks from forming on the surface.
→ How can I avoid a soggy crust?
Baking the crust beforehand and tightly sealing the pan will help it stay crisp, even with a water bath.

Apple Cinnamon Treat

A velvety cheesecake with a spiced crust, layered with luscious filling, and topped with buttery crumbles and cinnamon apples.

Prep Time
45 Minutes
Cook Time
85 Minutes
Total Time
130 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Sweet Treats

Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 Servings (1 9-inch cake)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 COOKIE CRUST:
02 200 g of graham or digestive cookies, crushed.
03 1.5 teaspoons of cinnamon powder.
04 A half teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
05 1.5 tablespoons of dark brown sugar.
06 50 g of melted butter.
07 APPLES AND CRUMBLE:
08 150 g small-cut apple pieces.
09 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
10 1 tablespoon of white sugar.
11 80 g of soft dark brown sugar.
12 100 g of plain flour for the topping.
13 70 g butter, softened.
14 CHEESECAKE:
15 600 g cream cheese brought to room temp.
16 200 g white sugar.
17 150 g of sour cream (room temperature).
18 1 tablespoon cornstarch.
19 3 large eggs at room temperature.
20 2 teaspoons of natural vanilla extract.

Instructions

Step 01

Start by blending the cookies, sugar, and spices into crumbs. Mix with melted butter, press into the pan, and pre-bake for 10 minutes.

Step 02

Toss diced apples with sugar and cinnamon to coat. For the topping, mix flour, butter, and sugar until crumbly.

Step 03

Mix cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add sour cream, vanilla, and beat in eggs until just mixed in.

Step 04

Pour filling over the prepared base. Sprinkle the cinnamon apples on top, followed by the crumble mixture.

Step 05

Bake in a water bath at 160°C for 80–90 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly when done.

Step 06

Cool in the turned-off oven for an hour, then leave it on the counter for another hour. Chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours.

Notes

  1. Make sure everything you’re using is at room temp.
  2. The water bath helps to stop cracking.
  3. This needs to chill overnight for the best results.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9-inch pan with a spring release.
  • Food processor for blending.
  • You’ll need a hand or stand mixer.
  • Large roasting tray for the hot water bath.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream cheese, butter, sour cream).
  • Eggs are included.
  • Gluten (cookies, flour).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: ~
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 61 g
  • Protein: 9 g