If you are on the hunt for a dessert that combines the best of creamy cheesecake and the cozy warmth of spiced apples with a crunchy topping, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s the perfect treat that balances smooth, rich textures with a wonderfully buttery, cinnamon-infused crumble and just the right hint of tart apple, creating an unforgettable flavor explosion everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The first part of the image shows a clear glass bowl filled with a smooth, light cream mixture with an egg yolk on top, placed on a white marbled surface. Next to it, there are three brown eggs in a white egg holder, a small clear bowl with oats, and part of a green cloth. The second part shows a round springform pan filled with a pale yellow smooth batter on a browned crust. Above the pan, there is a white bowl with crumbly oat mixture and a wooden board with thinly sliced green apple pieces, all set on the same white marbled surface with the green cloth partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays an essential role in turning this Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe into a masterpiece of flavor and texture. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the tangy cream cheese filling and the irresistible oat crumble, every component works harmoniously to create a dessert that’s truly special.

Graham cracker crumbs: The base that gives a crunchy, slightly sweet foundation with a hint of cinnamon for warmth.
Granulated sugar: Used in both crust and filling to add sweetness and balance flavors perfectly.
Butter (melted): Binds the crust and crumble together while adding richness and moisture.
Ground cinnamon: Sprinkled in crust and crumble for cozy, aromatic spice that complements the apples beautifully.
Cream cheese (room temperature): The star ingredient for the silky, creamy cheesecake filling.
Sour cream (room temperature): Adds a subtle tang and helps the cheesecake stay moist and smooth.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the natural sweetness and depth of the cheesecake filling.
Lemon juice: Brightens flavors and balances the rich creaminess.
All-purpose flour: Stabilizes the filling and adds structure without heaviness.
Eggs and egg yolks (room temperature): Provide richness and help set the cheesecake perfectly.
Old fashioned rolled oats: Give the crumble topping a satisfying chew and heartiness.
Light brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and moisture to the topping.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors just a touch, making them pop.
Apple (peeled, cored, and sliced): The fresh, tart centerpiece of the crumble topping, offering juicy bursts of flavor.
Caramel sauce (optional): A luscious finish that adds gooey sweetness and complements the apple crumble beautifully.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and wrapping your springform pan in foil to prevent leaks during the water bath. Crush the graham crackers finely using a food processor or a rolling pin, then mix them with sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of your pan, creating the perfect crunchy foundation. Bake it for 8 minutes to set, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). While the crust is still warm, make sure it holds its shape by gently pressing in any cracks with a glass.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, then gradually add the sugar, mixing thoroughly. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice for tang and aroma, followed by flour to help bind the mixture. Incorporate the eggs and yolks one at a time, blending on low speed to avoid overmixing and to maintain that silky texture. Pour this luscious filling over your warm crust and smooth the surface with a spatula, preparing it for the apple and crumble layers.

Step 3: Create the Apple Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Layer the peeled and sliced apple evenly over the cheesecake filling, then generously sprinkle the oat crumble on top, ensuring an even spread. This topping will bake into a golden, crunchy layer that delivers both flavor and texture contrasts.

Step 4: Bake with a Water Bath

Place the cheesecake pan inside a larger roasting pan and carefully pour boiling water to about 1 inch up the sides to create a water bath. This gentle baking method helps the cheesecake bake evenly while preventing cracks. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (165°C) for 75-85 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Turn the oven off and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked open for an hour to cool gradually, reducing the risk of cracks.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Run a knife around the edges of the cooled cheesecake to loosen it from the pan, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the texture to firm up beautifully, preparing it to be sliced and enjoyed.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

A round apple crumble pie sits centered on a white plate, showing three visual layers: a golden pie crust at the bottom, a smooth light yellow apple filling in the middle, and a top layer of coarse crumbly oat streusel in brown shades, drizzled with streaks of glossy caramel sauce. Above the pie to the left is a small glass jar filled with caramel sauce, with some sauce spilled beside it. On the right, red and green apples rest in a wire basket. Below the pie, a soft green cloth is casually placed, while two cinnamon sticks lie crossed on the white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top right before serving to add a luscious sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced apples and creamy cheesecake. A handful of toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon can also elevate the presentation and taste wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe with light accompaniments like fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. These sides add an airy, cooling element to balance the richness of the cheesecake while enhancing the overall indulgence of the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on rustic wooden boards for a cozy, autumnal vibe or plate them elegantly with edible flowers and mint leaves to impress guests. You can also cut the cheesecake into mini portions for bite-sized treats at parties or layer in parfait glasses with extra crumble and apple slices for a lovely deconstructed take.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe securely covered in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully fresh for up to four days, making it easy to enjoy seconds or save some for later sans loss of flavor or texture.

Freezing

For longer preservation, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can stay frozen for up to two months without any compromise to its creamy texture or delicious flavors. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best results.

Reheating

While cheesecake is typically best served cold or at room temperature, if you prefer a warmer slice, gently heat individual portions in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can affect the texture. Alternatively, serve with warm caramel sauce or ice cream to bring in cozy warmth without reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for the crumble topping?

Absolutely! Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith work best because they hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweet cheesecake, but feel free to experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn depending on your taste preference.

Is it necessary to use a water bath when baking this cheesecake?

Using a water bath is highly recommended as it provides gentle, even heat which helps prevent cracks and drying out. It creates the perfect creamy texture that makes this Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe so irresistible.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs and flour in both the crust and topping with gluten-free alternatives. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free too, and you’ll have a delicious, gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.

How long should I let the cheesecake chill before serving?

Patience is key! Chilling for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up for clean, perfect slices. This step is essential for the best texture and taste.

Can I prepare any parts of the Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust and filling a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake the cheesecake and crumble topping on the day you plan to serve for maximum freshness and flavor vibrancy.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t recommend giving this Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe a try enough. It’s a warm hug of a dessert, offering the perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, and fruity in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving some homemade comfort, this cheesecake will bring smiles and make unforgettable memories at your table.