Apple Crisp Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that makes everyone feel warm and cozy, the Apple Crisp Cheesecake is just the thing! This delightful treat combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of spiced apples and a crunchy topping. I can’t tell you how many times this recipe has made its way to my family gatherings, bringing smiles and happy sighs from everyone around the table.

What makes this Apple Crisp Cheesecake so special? It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight. Trust me; it’s a showstopper that will have your loved ones asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this dessert ready in no time!
• Perfect for sharing: The combination of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at parties and family dinners.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy days.
• Deliciously comforting: The blend of creamy cheesecake and warm spiced apples creates a delightful experience that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This Apple Crisp Cheesecake uses things you probably already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store.

For the Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs – 1 ½ cups
• Sugar – 1/4 cup
• Melted coconut oil – 1/2 cup

For the Filling

• Cream cheese (non-dairy alternative if preferred) – 16 oz
• Sugar – 3/4 cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Coconut milk (full-fat) – 1/2 cup
• Cornstarch – 1 tbsp

For the Apple Topping

• Apples (peeled and sliced) – 4 cups
• Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
• Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp
• Lemon juice – 1 tbsp

For the Crisp Topping

• Oats (gluten-free if needed) – 1 cup
• All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour) – 1/2 cup
• Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
• Cinnamon – 1 tsp
• Melted coconut oil or vegan butter substitute – 1/3 cup

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative with flavors and textures. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the crisp topping for extra crunch.
• Switch up the fruit: Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or berries for a different flavor profile!
• Make it caramelized: Drizzle some caramel sauce over each slice before serving for an indulgent twist.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and depth.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted coconut oil until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Baking the crust for about 8 minutes helps set it nicely, giving your cheesecake that perfect base.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In another bowl, beat together cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract, coconut milk, and cornstarch, mixing until everything is well combined. Pour this luscious mixture over your crust. This filling is what gives our cheesecake its creamy texture—trust me; you won’t want to skip this step!

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping

In a separate bowl, toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread these sweetened apples evenly over the cheesecake filling. The addition of apples introduces that classic apple crisp flavor we all love!

Step 4: Create the Crisp Topping

In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted coconut oil until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the apple layer. This topping gives us that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling below.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

Bake your creation in the preheated oven for about an hour or until set. Let it cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least four hours—overnight is even better! Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Now you’re ready to serve up slices of this amazing Apple Crisp Cheesecake! Enjoy every bite as it brings warmth and happiness to your table.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Creating the perfect Apple Crisp Cheesecake is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time!

• Use Fresh Apples: Opting for fresh, seasonal apples will enhance the flavor and texture of your filling. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer a great balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Let Ingredients Reach Room Temperature: Allowing cream cheese and eggs to sit at room temperature before mixing helps achieve a smoother cheesecake batter. This prevents lumps and ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the cheesecake ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in cracks during baking.
• Cool Gradually: Once baked, let your cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
• Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you can wait!). This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Presenting your Apple Crisp Cheesecake nicely can make a big difference! Here are some simple ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich cheesecake.
• Caramel Drizzle: A warm caramel drizzle can take your dessert over the top with its sweet richness that pairs perfectly with apples.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing visual element.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast that balances the warm spices of the cheesecake.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can provide a light and vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of your dessert.
• Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of roasted nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, adds crunch and complements the apple crisp topping nicely.
• Herbed Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh palate cleanser between bites of creamy cheesecake.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delightful Apple Crisp Cheesecake! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it later without losing any of its delightful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before covering it.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the cheesecake, slice it into individual servings first.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen slices, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight.
• If you prefer warm cheesecake, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For a crisp topping, heat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful dessert!

Can I make Apple Crisp Cheesecake without dairy?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter alternatives to create a delicious, dairy-free version of this Apple Crisp Cheesecake.

How long does Apple Crisp Cheesecake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Apple Crisp Cheesecake will stay fresh for 3-5 days.

What can I serve with Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or berries that complement the cheesecake base well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying out this Apple Crisp Cheesecake! Its combination of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and crunchy topping makes it a truly special dessert that will surely impress everyone. Enjoy making it and sharing it with your loved ones. Happy baking!