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Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

4.4 from 35 reviews

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the comforting flavors of apple crisp. Featuring a graham cracker crust, tender spiced apples, and a crisp oat topping, this dessert is baked in a water bath for a smooth, luscious texture. Perfect for fall or any special occasion, it’s served with optional salted caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 3 cups graham crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (112g) unsalted butter, melted

Apple Layer

  • 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Gala)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

Crisp Topping

  • 1/2 cup (63g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup quick oats
  • 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (680g) full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream, room temperature
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature

Other

  • Boiling water (for the water bath)
  • Salted caramel sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan tightly with foil to prevent water leakage. Grease the pan to prepare for the crust.
  2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix the graham crumbs, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly onto the bottom and up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until set.
  3. Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss the slices with brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated. Chill the apples until ready to use.
  4. Make Crisp Topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and quick oats in a bowl. Stir in melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Set aside for later layering.
  5. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugars until smooth and creamy. Mix in cornstarch and cinnamon. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, blending well. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing gently to combine fully without overbeating.
  6. Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust in the springform pan. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on top of the filling, avoiding excess juice. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apples.
  7. Bake in Water Bath: Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan to reach about 1 inch deep surrounding the cheesecake pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the cheesecake is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool it at room temperature while still in the water bath pan. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set.
  9. Serve: Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen. Release the springform pan sides and carefully remove it. Slice with a sharp knife. Optionally, drizzle salted caramel sauce on top for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Using room temperature cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs helps achieve a smooth cheesecake batter.
  • Wrapping the springform pan in foil is essential to prevent water from entering during the water bath baking.
  • Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweet topping.
  • The water bath ensures gentle and even baking, preventing cracks in the cheesecake.
  • Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight improves texture and flavor development.
  • Quick oats provide a better texture for the crisp topping compared to old-fashioned oats.

Keywords: apple crisp cheesecake, fall dessert, baked cheesecake, apple dessert, caramel cheesecake