Introduction
Apple crumble cheesecake is the perfect dessert for those who love the scrumptious combination of rich creaminess and comforting warmth. This recipe blends the tangy and smooth taste of cheesecake with the classic apple crisp topping, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a perfectly spiced apple layer and a crunchy crumble topping, this dessert will charm everyone at your table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the crust
– Graham cracker crumbs
– Unsalted butter, melted
– Sugar
For the apple filling
– Apples (peeled and diced)
– Sugar
– Ground cinnamon
– Nutmeg
For the cheesecake filling
– Cream cheese, softened
– Granulated sugar
– Eggs
– Vanilla extract
For the crumble topping
– All-purpose flour
– Brown sugar
– Ground cinnamon
– Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Prep Time
Preparation is a breeze for this delightful apple crumble cheesecake. Gathering all your ingredients and following the outlined steps will take about 20 minutes of hands-on time. It’s simple, straightforward, and worth every second of effort.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Bake this apple crumble cheesecake for approximately 45-50 minutes for that perfect, golden-brown topping and creamy center. Factoring in prep and bake time, the total time to bring this masterpiece together is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This recipe yields 8 servings, making it ideal for a family gathering or a friendly get-together.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Make the Graham Cracker Crust
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
3. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely while preparing the filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and all-purpose flour, and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth the surface.
Make the Spiced Apple Topping
1. Peel, core, and thinly slice apples. Add the slices to a medium bowl.
2. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until they’re evenly coated.
Assemble the Apple Layer
1. Arrange the spiced apple slices on top of the cheesecake layer in an even layer. Slightly overlap the slices for better presentation.
Make the Crumble Topping
1. In a medium bowl, mix all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple layer.
Bake the Cheesecake
1. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath.
2. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
3. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 70-80 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set.
4. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.
Cool and Chill the Cheesecake
1. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best results.
Notes
Alternative Crust Options
1. You can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies as an alternative to graham crackers.
Cheesecake Tips
1. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to avoid a lumpy batter.
2. Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the eggs to prevent cracking.
About the Water Bath
1. The water bath helps to create a moist environment and reduces the chances of the cheesecake cracking.
Cutting and Serving
1. For clean slices, run a knife under hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
Storage
1. Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Cook Techniques
How to prepare the crust
To prepare the crust, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand and press it firmly into an even layer in a springform pan.
How to make the cheesecake layer
Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy, then mix in the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once combined, pour the batter over the prepared crust.
Baking the cheesecake
Bake the cheesecake in a water bath technique. Wrap the springform pan in foil to prevent leakage, place in a larger pan, and pour hot water to create steam in the oven for even baking and to prevent cracks. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar to avoid sudden temperature changes.
How to prepare the crumble topping
Combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and cold cubes of butter, mixing until a crumbly texture forms. Bake the crumble topping separately on a tray until golden brown.
Assembling the layers
Spread a smooth layer of apple pie filling over the baked and cooled cheesecake. Sprinkle the baked crumble topping evenly over the apples to complete the dessert.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter for the crust?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the added sugar slightly to balance the flavor.
What type of apples work best for the filling?
Tart apples such as Granny Smith are ideal for holding their shape and providing a contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Do I need to use a water bath for baking?
Yes, a water bath ensures the cheesecake bakes evenly and prevents cracking. It also keeps the texture smooth and creamy.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cheesecake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add the crumble topping just before serving.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Using a water bath, ensuring the cream cheese is at room temperature, and cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven are key steps to preventing cracks.
Can I use store-bought apple pie filling?
Yes, using store-bought apple pie filling can save time. However, homemade filling often has better flavor and texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Refrain from topping slices with crumble until serving to maintain texture.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake without the apple filling and crumble topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling.
Conclusion
The apple crumble cheesecake offers a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and the comforting flavors of apple crumble. It’s the perfect dessert to impress guests or treat yourself to something special, blending the tanginess of cream cheese with the sweetness and warmth of spiced apples. This dessert is sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic New York Cheesecake
Try a classic New York-style cheesecake for a rich and dense dessert that pairs beautifully with fruit toppings, chocolate, or caramel.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Combine the flavors of spiced apples with soft cinnamon rolls for a breakfast or dessert treat.
Pear and Walnut Crumble
Swap out apples for pears and add walnuts to create a delicious twist on the traditional crumble dessert.
Caramel Apple Tart
Enjoy thinly sliced apples nestled in a flaky tart crust and drizzled with smooth caramel for an indulgent dessert.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
For a seasonal variation, incorporate pumpkin puree and spices into a creamy cheesecake to celebrate autumn flavors.
