Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes with Cinnamon Oat Topping

Oh, friends, there’s just something truly magical about a dessert that marries the comforting embrace of a classic apple crisp with the creamy indulgence of a cheesecake. These Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes are precisely that — a symphony of sweet-tart apples, spiced oat crumble, and a rich, velvety cheesecake all nestled in a delightful, individual serving. They’re like a warm hug and a sweet kiss all in one perfect bite, a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary happiness.

I still remember those afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and baking apples filling the air. It was there I learned that the secret ingredient is always love, and a little patience goes a long way. These mini cheesecakes transport me right back to those cherished moments, reminding me of the joy of creating something truly special with your own hands.

This recipe for Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes is not only incredibly approachable for bakers of all skill levels, but it’s also a show-stopping treat perfect for any gathering, big or small. My little tip? Always use good quality vanilla extract; it truly elevates all those beautiful flavors!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting these delightful mini apple crisp cheesecakes relies on a few key players: the tangy Granny Smith apples for that perfect bite, luscious cream cheese for the silken filling, and hearty old-fashioned rolled oats for that irresistible crisp topping. I always find using fresh, crisp apples makes all the difference, bringing a vibrant burst of flavor to each Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below, ready for your baking adventure.

How to Make Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes

Embarking on the journey to create these delicious Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes is a delightful process, starting with a buttery graham cracker crust, moving to a perfectly spiced apple topping, and then a creamy cheesecake filling. We’ll layer these harmonious elements before topping them with a generous oat crisp and baking until golden. It’s a wonderful adventure that culminates in individual servings of pure joy, perfect for sharing (or not!).

Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes

These delightful mini cheesecakes combine a creamy vanilla cheesecake base with a spiced apple topping and a buttery oat crisp, creating a perfect individual dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.

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Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs fine
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese softened, full-fat recommended
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp sour cream optional, room temperature

For the Spiced Apple Topping

• 1 large Granny Smith apple peeled, cored, and finely diced
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Oat Crisp Topping

• 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp light brown sugar packed
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter cold and cubed

Equipment

• 12-cup Muffin Tin
• Paper liners
• Mixing bowls (large, medium, small)
• Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire Rack

Method

 

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and mixture resembles wet sand. Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups, pressing firmly into the bottom of each liner. Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the filling.

Make the Spiced Apple Topping

1. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add finely diced apple, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and set aside to cool completely.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup granulated sugar and beat until well combined and creamy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream (if using) until just combined. Do not overmix.

Assemble the Cheesecakes

1. Divide the cheesecake filling evenly among the 12 muffin cups, spooning it over the baked graham cracker crusts.
2. Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the cooled spiced apple mixture onto the center of each cheesecake.

Create the Oat Crisp Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine old-fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter. Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Top and Bake

1. Sprinkle the oat crisp topping evenly over the apple topping on each cheesecake.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, prop the oven door open slightly, and let the cheesecakes cool in the oven for 30 minutes. This helps prevent cracking.

Chill and Serve

1. Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese and egg are at room temperature. Use a spring-loaded ice cream scoop for uniform cheesecake filling. These cheesecakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Pro Tips for Making This Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes

Baking, for me, is a journey of discovery, and I’ve gathered a few cherished tips over the years that I love to share, especially for a recipe as lovely as these Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes.

• Cream Cheese Temperature: Always make sure your cream cheese, egg, and sour cream are at room temperature. This is crucial for achieving that silky-smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling we all dream about. It blends so much more evenly!
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Once you add the egg, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which can cause cracks in your cheesecakes as they cool. Gentle is always best here.
• My Secret Trick: When preparing the spiced apple topping, I always sauté the Granny Smith apples just until they start to soften, but still hold a little bite. This ensures they don’t turn to mush during baking and provide a lovely textural contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
• Cooling is Key: Resist the urge to dive in immediately! Chilling your Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes fully is vital. It allows the cheesecake to set properly, enhancing both its flavor and its delightful texture. Patience truly is a virtue in baking!

Fun Variations for Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes

One of the greatest joys of home baking is the freedom to get a little creative and make a recipe truly your own. These Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes are wonderfully adaptable, and I love thinking up new ways to enjoy them!

Flavor Twists

• Pear & Ginger: Swap out half of the Granny Smith apples for ripe pears and add a pinch of ground ginger to the spiced apple topping for a warm, subtly spicy twist. My friend Sarah absolutely adores this combination, especially around the holidays.
• Caramel Swirl: After adding the cheesecake filling to the crusts, swirl in a tablespoon of homemade or good-quality store-bought caramel sauce before adding the apple and oat topping. This adds an extra layer of sweet, buttery indulgence that is simply irresistible.
• Nutty Crunch: For an added layer of flavor and crunch, try mixing finely chopped pecans or walnuts into your oat crisp topping. It complements the apples beautifully and adds a lovely depth.

Seasonal & Topping Ideas

• Berry Burst: While apples are classic, you could also try a mixed berry topping in the summer months. Just lightly cook mixed berries with a touch of sugar and cornstarch until thickened, then layer over the cheesecake filling instead of apples.
• Extra Toppings: Before serving, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates these mini treats even further. My sister always asks for a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of her whipped cream!

What to Serve With Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes

These delicious Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes are truly a star on their own, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can elevate them into an even more memorable experience. I often think about what makes a dessert feel complete, a little something extra that warms the heart.

I love serving them with a scoop of really good vanilla bean ice cream; the way it slowly melts into the warm apple crisp topping is just heavenly. Another lovely pairing is a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream, perhaps lightly sweetened with a hint of maple syrup. For a more sophisticated touch, a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds a beautiful finish. And in my home, a steaming mug of hot apple cider or a comforting cup of coffee is the perfect companion to these sweet treats, especially on a chilly evening. A quick serving idea is to have a small bowl of caramel sauce ready for guests to drizzle themselves!

How to Store Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes

After all the love and effort you put into baking these delightful mini apple crisp cheesecakes, you’ll want to ensure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to preserving their wonderful flavors and textures.

Refrigerator Storage

• Airtight Container: Once completely cooled, store your Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always like to place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent them from sticking.
• Best Served Chilled: These cheesecakes are absolutely divine when served cold, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheesecake to maintain its firm, creamy texture.

Freezer Storage

• Individual Wrapping: For longer storage, wrap each cooled mini cheesecake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
• Thawing & Serving: Thaw frozen cheesecakes in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve them chilled, or if you prefer a slightly warm crisp topping, you can gently warm the cheesecake (without the paper liner) in a microwave for a few seconds before serving. My personal tip for freezer storage is always to label and date your containers clearly so you know exactly what deliciousness awaits you!

Nutritional Benefits

While we bake for joy and flavor, it’s lovely to know that some ingredients bring a little goodness along for the ride. These Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes benefit from the wholesome fiber found in the Granny Smith apples and old-fashioned rolled oats, adding a touch of nourishment to this delightful indulgence. It’s a sweet treat that’s both satisfying and offers those familiar, comforting ingredients that make homemade desserts so special.

FAQs

Can I make the apple crisp topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spiced apple topping a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This can help streamline your baking process, making these Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes even more convenient.

What can I use if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
If graham cracker crumbs aren’t available, you can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers. The key is to have a fine crumb for the crust of your Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes.

How do I prevent my cheesecakes from cracking?
Ensure all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter once the egg is added. This helps create a smooth, crack-free surface for your lovely Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes.

Can I use a different type of apple?
While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with other firm, slightly tart baking apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn. They will still make wonderful Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes!

Conclusion

Baking these Mini Apple Crisp Cheesecakes is more than just following a recipe; it’s about infusing a little love into every step and creating something truly memorable. Each mini cheesecake is a testament to the warmth of homemade desserts, bringing together nostalgic flavors with a delightful new twist. I truly hope you’ll embrace the joy of creating these sweet treats in your own kitchen, gathering loved ones around and making new, cherished memories, one delicious bite at a time. Happy baking, my friends!