Apple crumble cheesecake is the kind of dessert that just begs for a little chaos in the kitchen. First, I’ll admit, this recipe came to life on a chilly Sunday when I had half a dozen apples rolling around the counter and absolutely no plan. Also, there’s something magical about the way sweet apples and creamy cheesecake come together—messy countertops and all.
Then, as the scent of cinnamon started drifting from the oven, I realized this wasn’t just any regular cheesecake. It’s the kind of treat that makes you want to dance barefoot on the kitchen tiles while sneaking a spoonful of crumble. So, if you’re searching for a new favorite among apple recipes, or just craving a yummy food dessert, you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about why this bake deserves a spot in your “just desserts” rotation.
My Kitchen Story
Honestly, the first time I made apple crumble cheesecake, I had no idea what I was doing. I had seen something like Julie Marie Eats Apple Crumble Cheesecake on social media and thought, “How hard could it be?” Turns out, baking is a wild adventure, especially when you’re juggling sticky apples and a wobbly cheesecake base. Also, I once tried balancing the springform pan on one hand while answering a call—never again! My kitchen may have looked like a flour bomb exploded, but the result? Pure joy, even if my crumble was more of a clump at first.
Then, I realized how much a baked method actually saves the day. You get that cookie crust with just the right crunch (thanks to the oven’s magic), and the apples turn perfectly tender without getting mushy. If you love easy bakes, you might want to check out the Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Baked Recipes for more cozy kitchen fun. Also, for a totally different kind of bake, the Baked Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza Recipe Easy And Delicious is a must-try.
What Makes It Stand Out
So, what sets this apple cheesecake crumble apart from the rest? It’s all about the layers. First, there’s the big apple crumb cheesecake vibe—thick, creamy, and loaded with cinnamon apples. Then, every forkful gives you a bit of crunchy topping and buttery cookie crust. Finally, you get that glorious moment when the cheesecake wobbles just right as it cools, promising a perfect slice every time. If you’re tired of plain cheesecakes, this one’s got personality and just enough kitchen chaos to keep things interesting.
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Digestive or graham crackers | |
| Dark brown sugar | |
| Ground cinnamon | |
| Ground nutmeg | |
| Butter | |
| Apples | |
| Granulated sugar | |
| All-purpose flour | |
| Cream cheese | |
| Sour cream | |
| Cornstarch | |
| Vanilla extract | |
| Eggs |
Handy Kitchen Helpers
First, for this apple pie crumble cheesecake, you’ll want a trusty springform pan—nothing else gives you that perfect, tall-sided look. A food processor makes prepping the cookie crust a breeze, and if you have a stand mixer, you’ll breeze through the creamy filling. If not, a hand mixer works just fine!
Since this is a baked apple cheesecake crumble, you’ll need a conventional oven. The water bath method is key here; it keeps the edges of your apple crumble cheesecake silky and prevents cracks, so grab a roasting pan and some aluminum foil. When it comes to substitutions, you can swap graham crackers for digestive biscuits, and use your favorite baking apples for the best flavor.
Also, don’t forget parchment paper for easy removal, and a kettle for boiling water. If you love creative bakes, you might enjoy my Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls Baked Recipes or the Baked Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza Recipe Easy And Delicious for more oven inspiration. Finally, if you’re curious about balancing desserts with healthy eating, this guide to healthy eating is a wonderful resource for families.
Step-by-step method for a Baked recipe
Step 1
First, preheat your oven to 160ºC (325ºF). In a food processor, add digestive or graham crackers, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, then blend until the mixture is fine and sandy. Next, pour in melted butter and blend again. Line a 22 cm springform pan with parchment paper. Press the cookie mixture into the bottom and up the sides, using a glass for a smooth finish. Then, bake for 10 minutes and let the crust cool until it’s comfortable to touch.
Step 2
While the crust cools, dice apples into small cubes. Toss them with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, but don’t add any juice that collects. In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and butter, mixing by hand or with a mixer until crumbly. Set aside both the apple mixture and crumble. This step brings that classic flavor into your apple crumble cheesecake!
Step 3
Now, lower the mixer speed and beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, scraping the bowl as needed. Next, whisk sour cream with cornstarch, then blend into the cream cheese along with vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Pour the batter into your crust. Evenly scatter apples, then top with the crumble. Place the springform pan inside a larger cake pan, then set both into a roasting pan. Pour hot water in the outer pan for a water bath. Bake for about 1 hour and 20-30 minutes. Afterward, let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Finally, cool completely at room temperature and chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours—overnight is even better for this treat.
Tips and tricks to make this Baked recipe shine
For a perfect apple crumble cheesecake, always use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing. Also, make sure to keep the apples dry before adding them, as extra liquid can affect the cheesecake texture. For extra flavor, try mixing different apple varieties. If you love trying new Yummy Food Dessert ideas, this recipe will not disappoint! Want more inspiration? Check out this Easy Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken Recipe For Tender And Flavorful Dinner for a savory change. Or, for a comforting meal, see the Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe Made Easy In Your Slow Cooker Crockpot. Finally, don’t worry if your crust has a few cracks—imperfections add to the homemade charm. Enjoy every bite of this Big Apple Crumb Cheesecake!
What to serve with this Baked recipe
First, when you pull your apple crumble cheesecake from the oven, you’ll want something to balance the creamy richness. Try a bright, tangy fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch. Next, a warm mug of spiced chai or herbal tea pairs beautifully, especially in cooler months. If you’re hosting a brunch, offer savory dishes like a veggie frittata or simple roasted potatoes on the side.
Also, for a comforting dinner-to-dessert transition, why not start with something hearty like our Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe For A Healthy Weeknight Dinner? Or, if you’re craving another cozy main, the Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe Easy Dump And Go Crockpot Dinner is a family favorite. Both pair well with this yummy food dessert!
How to store and reheat
Because this is a baked cheesecake, cooling it fully before refrigerating is key for the best texture. Always store leftovers tightly wrapped or in an airtight container—this keeps the apple cheesecake crumble fresh and prevents fridge odors from sneaking in. If you’d like a warm slice, gently reheat individual servings in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. However, avoid reheating the whole cake at once, as this might make the crumble topping a bit soggy. Finally, baked cheesecakes can last up to five days in the fridge, making them perfect for make-ahead desserts.
FAQ
Can I use any type of apple for apple crumble cheesecake?
Yes! However, tart apples like Granny Smith hold up best in baking, giving a nice balance to the sweetness. You can mix varieties for more flavor.
Is it possible to freeze this cheesecake?
Absolutely. First, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying again.
How do I keep the crumble topping crisp?
Next, let the cheesecake cool completely before covering. If possible, store uncovered for the first few hours in the fridge to help maintain the crispiness.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend in the crumble and base. The results are still delicious!
What makes this different from big apple crumb cheesecake?
While both are similar, this version has a richer crumble and uses a classic baked method for a creamy, dreamy filling.
Print
Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Full recipes (ingredients + preparation)
- Total Time: 9 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious apple crumble cheesecake featuring a spiced cookie crust, cinnamon-sugar apple topping, and a creamy cheesecake filling baked in a water bath to perfection.
Ingredients
130g digestive or graham crackers
60g dark brown sugar (crust)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (crust)
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
90g unsalted butter, melted (crust)
3 medium apples, diced
2 tbsp granulated sugar (apples)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (apples)
25g all-purpose flour
50g dark brown sugar (crumble)
30g unsalted butter, cold (crumble)
450g cream cheese
150g granulated sugar (cheesecake)
120g sour cream
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 160ºC (325ºF). In a food processor, blend digestive or graham crackers, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until fine and sand-like. Add melted butter and blend to combine.
2. Line bottom of a 22 cm springform pan with parchment paper. Press cookie mixture firmly into bottom and up sides. Bake 10 minutes, then cool.
3. Dice apples and toss with granulated sugar and cinnamon; set aside without liquid.
4. Mix all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and cold butter by hand or mixer until crumbly; set aside.
5. In a mixer, beat cream cheese on low for 1 minute. Gradually add granulated sugar, continue mixing on low for 1 minute.
6. Whisk sour cream and cornstarch smooth, add with vanilla to cream cheese mixture, mix low until combined.
7. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently until incorporated. Scrape bowl and mix once more.
8. Pour batter into prepared pan. Evenly distribute apple mixture on top, then sprinkle crumble over apples.
9. Bring water to boil in kettle. Place springform pan inside 25 cm cake pan, then into larger roasting pan. Pour hot water until about two-thirds up cake pan, creating water bath. Optionally, wrap springform pan in 3 foil layers to prevent leaks.
10. Bake cheesecake 1 hour 20-30 minutes until center slightly wobbly. Turn off oven; leave door slightly open, cool 1 hour inside oven.
11. Remove from water bath, peel off foil if used. Cool completely at room temp about 1 hour.
12. Refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight to fully set.
Notes
Use digestive or graham crackers as crust base.
Cold butter is essential for crumble texture.
Avoid using apple juice released when tossing apples.
Water bath prevents crust from becoming soggy.
Chill cheesecake overnight for best slicing.
Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
Finally, there’s just something magical about sharing a homemade apple pie crumble cheesecake with friends and family. The aroma, the cozy kitchen vibes, and the first bite—pure happiness. If you love cheesecake recipes or just desserts, this is one you’ll want to make again and again. For more inspiration, check out our latest favorites like the Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken or discover a healthy twist with the Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl. Want even more apple recipes and cooking ideas? Come follow us on Pinterest for cozy, sweet, and savory inspiration, straight from my kitchen to yours.