Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet spice of apple pie and the crunch of buttery crumble topping. It’s a layered dessert that feels indulgent, cozy, and perfect for any occasion where I want something impressive but still comforting.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this dessert blends three of my favorites—cheesecake, apple pie, and crumb topping—all in one slice. The smooth, tangy cheesecake base pairs beautifully with the tender cinnamon apples and the crunchy streusel on top. It’s great for fall, but honestly, I enjoy it year-round.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Melted butter
- Sugar
For the cheesecake filling:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream or heavy cream
For the apple layer:
- Apples, peeled and diced
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Lemon juice
For the crumble topping:
- All-purpose flour
- Brown sugar
- Butter, cold and cubed
- Cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Directions
- I preheat the oven to 325°F and grease a springform pan.
- I mix the crust ingredients and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- I beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in eggs, vanilla, and sour cream.
- I pour the filling over the crust.
- I toss the diced apples with lemon juice, sugar, and spices, then layer them evenly over the cheesecake batter.
- I make the crumble topping by combining flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and butter until it’s crumbly, then sprinkle it over the apples.
- I bake for 55–65 minutes until the center is mostly set.
- I cool it completely, then chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 10–12 and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes total, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time.
Variations
- I sometimes add chopped pecans or oats to the crumble for extra crunch.
- Caramel drizzle on top takes it to the next level.
- A ginger snap crust gives it more spice.
- Pears can be used instead of apples for a fun twist.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully—I wrap slices in plastic and foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge. No reheating needed, just slice and serve chilled.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better made a day in advance to let it set properly and develop flavor.
What kind of apples work best?
I like using firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn—they hold their shape and offer great flavor.
Do I need a water bath?
It’s optional. I bake it without one and don’t mind a slight crack, but a water bath gives a smoother finish.
How do I know when it’s done?
The edges will be set, and the center should still jiggle slightly. It will firm up as it chills.
Can I use pre-made crust?
Yes. A store-bought graham cracker crust works, though I prefer making it to fit a springform pan.
Conclusion
Apple Crumble Cheesecake is everything I love in a dessert—rich, creamy, fruity, and full of texture. It’s a showstopper for holidays or gatherings but easy enough to make for a cozy weekend treat. Every bite delivers that perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and crunch.
Print
Apple Crumble Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55‑65 minutes
- Total Time: ≈6 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the sweet spice of apple pie and the crunch of buttery crumble topping. It’s a layered dessert that feels indulgent, cozy, and perfect for any occasion where you want something impressive but still comforting.
Ingredients
- For the crust: 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup brown sugar, 6 tbsp melted butter
- For the cheesecake filling: 24 oz (3 8‑oz packages) cream cheese (softened), 1 cup brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 3 large eggs
- For the apple layer: 3 apples (peeled and diced), 2 tbsp lemon juice, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg
- For the crumble topping: 1 cup all‑purpose flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup cold butter (cubed), 1 tsp cinnamon, pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9‑inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment.
- Mix crust ingredients and press into bottom of prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, sour/heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until blended. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Pour filling over crust.
- Toss diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread apple mixture evenly on top of cheesecake batter.
- In another bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle crumble topping over the apples and cheesecake layer.
- Bake for 55‑65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when shaken.
- Turn off oven and crack the door open; let cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Then chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, run a knife around the edge, release the springform, and slice. Optionally drizzle caramel sauce or sprinkle extra crumble.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith—they hold their shape and balance sweetness & tartness. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Full‑fat cream cheese and room‑temperature ingredients help achieve a smooth, creamy filling. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- For added texture, you can stir chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- If you prefer a smoother finish, you can bake the cheesecake in a water bath; many recipes mention it’s optional when the crumble covers the top. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days; cheesecake also freezes well. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
