Have you ever wondered how to combine the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of apple crumble? Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the answer! This delightful dessert not only challenges the notion that cheesecakes can be heavy but also offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. With a buttery crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a crunchy crumble topping, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!

Ingredients List

To create your Apple Crumble Cheesecake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cheesecake:

• 2 cups cream cheese (softened)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Substitutions

• Cream Cheese: Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
• Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative for a healthier option.
• Oats: Use gluten-free oats if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures even baking for your cheesecake.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, diced apples, and cinnamon until just combined.

Step 4: Pour the Filling

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cubed cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly. If using, fold in the chopped pecans.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cheesecake filling.

Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be lightly browned.

Step 8: Cool and Chill

Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per slice (based on 12 slices):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 6g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To enhance the nutritional profile of your Apple Crumble Cheesecake, consider these modifications:

• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for added protein.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut down the sugar by 25% without sacrificing flavor, or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Add Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour in the crumble topping for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious cheesecake can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Serve with Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Garnish with Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to cracks in the cheesecake. Mix until just combined.
2. Not Cooling Gradually: Allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly helps prevent cracking.
3. Skipping the Chilling Time: Chilling enhances the flavor and texture of the cheesecake.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Apple Crumble Cheesecake fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

In summary, Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds—creamy cheesecake and crunchy apple crumble. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or any special occasion. Try this recipe today and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!

FAQs

Can I use different fruits?

Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or berries for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set, and the center should still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.