Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Here’s a detailed recipe for Apple Crisp Cheesecake, with step-by-step instructions, uses, and benefits. This combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, spiced crunch of apple crisp.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz (3 x 8 oz) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or heavy cream

For the Apple Layer:

3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp lemon juice

For the Crisp Topping:

¾ cup old-fashioned oats
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon.
Stir in melted butter until mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until creamy.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Layer

In a skillet, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until apples are slightly softened but not mushy.
Spread the cooked apples evenly over the cheesecake filling.

Step 4: Make the Crisp Topping

In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Cut in cold butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples and cheesecake.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50–60 minutes, until the center is just set.
Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style treat.
Can be served cold as a rich, creamy dessert.
Garnish with caramel drizzle or chopped nuts for extra flavor and crunch.

Uses of Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Holiday Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family gatherings.
Birthday Cake Alternative: A unique cheesecake option for special occasions.
Coffee or Tea Dessert: Pairs beautifully with coffee or chai for brunch.
Make-Ahead Treat: Can be prepared a day ahead—flavors improve as it chills.

Health Benefits

Apples: Provide fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
Oats: Contain heart-healthy soluble fiber and minerals.
Cheese: Good source of calcium and protein (moderate consumption recommended).
Cinnamon: May help regulate blood sugar and add anti-inflammatory properties.

Tip: While it’s a rich dessert, using lower-fat cream cheese or reducing sugar slightly can make it a bit lighter without sacrificing taste.

If you want, I can also give you a step-by-step shortcut version that layers everything directly in the pan without separately cooking the apples, which is faster but just as delicious.