If you can’t decide between a creamy cheesecake and a cozy apple crisp, this Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mashup. With a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, a layer of spiced apples, and a crunchy oat crisp topping, every bite is a perfect balance of rich and refreshing.
This dessert is a showstopper for holidays, especially Thanksgiving, but it’s also easy enough to make for a fall weekend treat. The sweet and tart apples combined with cinnamon spice and buttery oat topping make it a dessert that will impress family, friends, and guests alike.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
For the Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with foil to prevent leaks.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until crumbly. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until creamy. Pour filling over the crust.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Layer
- Toss sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread evenly over the cheesecake filling.
Step 5: Make the Crisp Topping
- Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over apples.
Step 6: Bake
- Place cheesecake in a water bath (pan set inside a larger pan filled with hot water). Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until center is set but slightly jiggly.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
- Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Variation
- Caramel Drizzle: Add warm caramel sauce on top before serving.
- Nutty Crisp: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the oat topping.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Make in muffin tins for individual servings.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and oats.
Cooking Notes
- Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- A water bath prevents cracks in the cheesecake.
- Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight improves flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Add a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup for extra indulgence.
- Perfect centerpiece dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas tables.
Tips
- Slice apples thinly so they bake evenly.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance sweetness.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: ~6 hours
Nutritional Info (per slice, approx. 12 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 24g
- Sodium: 290mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Apple Crisp Cheesecake ahead of time?
- Yes, it’s best made a day ahead so it chills and sets overnight.
Q2: Can I freeze this cheesecake?
- Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q3: What apples are best for this recipe?
- Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work best. A mix of tart and sweet apples gives great flavor.
Q4: Can I make this without the crisp topping?
- Yes, but the crisp adds amazing texture. You can replace it with a streusel or nut topping.
Q5: How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
- Use a water bath, don’t overbake, and let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven.
Conclusion
This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is the best of both worlds—creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a buttery crisp topping. It’s festive, cozy, and perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or anytime you’re craving an unforgettable dessert. With every slice, you’ll get layers of creamy, crunchy, and fruity goodness that make this recipe a true showstopper.