Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines creamy cheesecake with a crunchy apple crisp topping. To prepare, start with the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, then press into a springform pan. For the apple filling, sauté sliced apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. For the cheesecake, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth, adding eggs one at a time. Layer the cheesecake and apple filling over the crust. Mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crisp topping, then cut in butter until crumbly and sprinkle over the top. Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes, then cool and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious blend of creamy and crunchy textures.

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines creamy cheesecake with a crunchy apple crisp topping. Here are the detailed ingredients you'll need to make this delicious dessert.

INGREDIENTS

• For the Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 and 1/2 cups, finely crushed for a solid base.
  • Unsalted Butter: 5 tablespoons, melted to bind the crumbs together.
  • Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup, to sweeten the crust.
• For the Apple Filling:
  • Apples: 3 large, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced for a tender filling.
  • Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the apples.
  • Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, to sweeten the apples.
  • Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, for a warm spice flavor.
  • Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, for additional spice.
• For the Cheesecake:
  • Cream Cheese: 3 packages (24 oz total), softened for a smooth filling.
  • Granulated Sugar: 1 cup, to sweeten the cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, for flavor.
  • Eggs: 3 large, to bind the filling together.
• For the Crisp Topping:
  • All-Purpose Flour: 3/4 cup, for structure.
  • Old Fashioned Oats: 1/2 cup, for a crunchy texture.
  • Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, to sweeten the topping.
  • Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon, for flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup, cold and cubed, to form crumbs for the topping.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Combine 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 5 tablespoons melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a bowl.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
• Add 3 large peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
• Cook until apples are just softened, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

• In a large bowl, beat 3 packages (24 oz) softened cream cheese, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
• Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating just until blended.
• Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust.
• Layer with half of the apple filling. Repeat layers.

Step 4: Add the Crisp Topping

• In a bowl, mix 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup old fashioned oats, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
• Cut in 1/4 cup cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Sprinkle over the top of the cheesecake.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. The center should be set, but slightly jiggly.
• Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• For the best flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serve chilled, garnished with additional apple slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Helpful Notes

• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps in the cheesecake filling.
• Feel free to adjust the spices in the apple filling to suit your taste. More cinnamon or a pinch of cloves can add extra warmth.
• For a crispier topping, you can broil the cheesecake for a minute or two after baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Martha Stewart: "Always use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest cheesecake filling."
• Chef Ina Garten: "Letting the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating helps to prevent cracks."
• Chef Nigella Lawson: "A water bath during baking can help achieve a silky smooth texture for your cheesecake."