Baked Apple Crumble Cheesecake with a Cinnamon Streusel

Oh, friends, there’s nothing quite like the irresistible charm of a truly delightful Apple Crumble Cheesecake. It’s where the crisp, spiced warmth of a classic apple crumble meets the creamy, dreamy indulgence of a perfect cheesecake. Every forkful is a symphony of textures and tastes – a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake filling, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crunchy, sweet streusel topping. It’s a dessert that feels both deeply comforting and wonderfully sophisticated.

I remember countless childhood afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and baking apples filling the air. She’d always say, “Sara, the best desserts are made with love and a little patience.” That wisdom has guided me through years of baking experiments, from triumphs to learning moments, and it’s especially true for a showstopper like this.

This recipe for Apple Crumble Cheesecake is designed to bring that same joy and deliciousness to your home. It’s surprisingly approachable for such a fancy-looking dessert, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend treat. My top tip? Always make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for that impossibly smooth filling!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this dessert combines simple pantry staples with fresh, vibrant flavors. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the rich cream cheese and Granny Smith apples, each ingredient matters. I always use quality unsalted butter for your Apple Crumble Cheesecake streusel. The full list of ingredients and precise measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Creating this incredible dessert unfolds in delightful stages. We build a buttery graham cracker crust, prepare the spiced apple layer, then the velvety cream cheese filling. We carefully assemble these layers, bake until golden, then add that irresistible cinnamon streusel. A good chill, and it’s ready to enchant!

Classic Apple Crumble Cheesecake

This decadent Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines a rich, creamy vanilla cheesecake with a spiced apple pie filling, all topped with a buttery oat crumble, creating the ultimate dessert for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs finely crushed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream room temperature

For the Spiced Apple Layer

• 3 medium Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water

For the Oat Crumble Topping

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

Equipment

• 9-inch Springform Pan
• Large mixing bowls
• Electric Mixer (stand or hand)
• Small saucepan
• Parchment Paper
• Aluminum Foil
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board
• Oven
• Roasting Pan (for water bath)
• Wire Rack

Method

 

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath. Alternatively, use parchment paper on the bottom and foil around the sides.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly while preparing the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).

Make the Apple Layer

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, until apples begin to soften but still hold their shape.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add to the apples in the saucepan and stir continuously until the mixture thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
2. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar, beating until just combined and no lumps remain. Do not overmix.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing only until just incorporated after each addition. Scrape down the bowl after each egg.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter at this stage to prevent cracks.

Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
2. Carefully spoon the cooled spiced apple mixture over the cheesecake batter, spreading it evenly but leaving a small border around the edge.
3. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apple layer, gently spreading it to cover the apples.
4. Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan, reaching about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This creates a water bath, essential for even baking and preventing cracks.
5. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble when gently shaken.
6. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and leave the cheesecake in the oven for 1 hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracking.
7. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and the oven. Let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature.

Prepare and Add the Crumble Topping

1. While the cheesecake is cooling, prepare the crumble topping. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pinch of salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Once the cheesecake is completely cool, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Carefully sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cooled cheesecake.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and crisp.

Chill and Serve

1. Allow the cheesecake to cool again on a wire rack after adding the crumble. This helps it set further.
2. Once cooled, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving. This is crucial for the cheesecake to fully set and for optimal texture.
3. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan before slicing and serving. You can run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake before releasing the springform.

Notes

For best results, ensure all cold ingredients (cream cheese, eggs, sour cream) are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter and prevents cracking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Pro Tips for Making This Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Baking should always be a joyful experience, and with a few little tricks from my kitchen, your creation will be nothing short of spectacular!

• 
  

  Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are all at room temperature before mixing. This creates an incredibly smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter, ensuring that silky texture we all adore. It’s a non-negotiable step for me!

  
  
• 
  

  My Secret Trick: To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, bake it in a water bath! Simply wrap the springform pan tightly in foil, place it in a larger roasting pan, and fill the outer pan with boiling water halfway up the side of the springform. The moist environment helps it bake evenly and prevents drying.

  
  
• 
  

  Don’t Rush the Chill: I know it’s hard to wait, but allowing your cheesecake to chill for at least 6-8 hours, or even overnight, is crucial. This helps it set properly, firm up, and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience truly pays off here.

  
  
• 
  

  Streusel Timing: Wait to add your streusel topping until the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This prevents it from getting too dark or soggy, ensuring a perfectly crisp, golden-brown crunch that beautifully complements the creamy Apple Crumble Cheesecake filling.

  
  

Fun Variations for Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Part of the fun of baking is making a recipe your own, and this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is wonderfully adaptable! Don’t be shy about experimenting with these twists:

Spice It Up

Instead of just cinnamon and nutmeg, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to your apple filling for a warm, exotic spice profile. My sister always asks me to swirl in a touch of allspice; it adds a lovely depth.

Fruit Fantasies

While Granny Smith apples are classic, imagine swapping out a portion for ripe pears, or even adding a handful of dried cranberries for a tart burst. A friend loves when I mix in some thinly sliced peaches during late summer for a seasonal twist.

Nutty Crumble

For an extra layer of texture and flavor, try adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the oat mixture. A sprinkle of toasted almonds could also be delightful, giving this wonderful Apple Crumble Cheesecake a gourmet touch.

What to Serve With Apple Crumble Cheesecake

This delightful Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a star on its own, but a few simple accompaniments can truly elevate the experience, making it feel extra special.

• 
  

  A Scoop of Creamy Bliss: My absolute favorite pairing is a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy sweetness melts slightly into the warm slice, creating pure heaven. A dollop of freshly whipped cream is also simply divine.

  
  
• 
  

  Caramel Drizzle: For an extra layer of indulgence, a homemade or good-quality store-bought caramel sauce drizzled over each slice is spectacular. It brings out the sweetness of the apples beautifully.

  
  
• 
  

  Warm Beverages: A cozy mug of coffee, a robust Earl Grey tea, or even a spiced apple cider pairs wonderfully, especially on a chilly evening. My mom always pairs her slice with a steaming cup of hot cocoa in winter.

  
  

How to Store Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Keeping your delicious Apple Crumble Cheesecake fresh is key to enjoying every last crumb! With a few simple steps, you can savor its wonderful flavor for days.

Fridge Storage

Once cooled completely, cover your cheesecake loosely with plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I find an airtight container keeps it from absorbing any fridge odors and retains its moisture best.

Freezing for Later

Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake (after it’s completely chilled and unwrapped from the springform) tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating & Serving

To enjoy that warm, cozy feel again, individual slices can be gently warmed in the microwave. A light dusting of powdered sugar after reheating brings your Apple Crumble Cheesecake back to life and makes it look freshly baked!

Nutritional Benefits

While we bake for joy, it’s wonderful to know our treats can offer a little extra! This Apple Crumble Cheesecake uses fresh Granny Smith apples for natural fiber and vitamins. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a dessert that’s both indulgent and nourishing.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions to help you bake your best Apple Crumble Cheesecake!

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

My best tip is using a water bath during baking; it creates a moist environment, ensuring your cheesecake bakes gently. Also, don’t open the oven door too often!

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smiths offer a great tart balance, you can use Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter profile. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape in this Apple Crumble Cheesecake.

What if my streusel isn’t crispy?

Ensure your butter is cold when making the streusel, and don’t overmix. Adding it towards the end of baking helps achieve that perfect, golden crunch that makes this dessert special.

Can I make this ahead of time for a party?

Yes, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert! Bake it a day or two in advance and keep it chilled. This even allows the flavors to deepen beautifully, ready for your party.

Conclusion

And there you have it, sweet friends – a recipe for a truly unforgettable Apple Crumble Cheesecake that will bring warmth and cheer to any occasion. From its buttery crust to its spiced apple layer, creamy filling, and irresistible streusel, it’s a dessert that speaks of comfort and celebration. Baking, for me, is about creating those cherished memories, and I genuinely hope this recipe inspires you to find joy in your kitchen. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, bake with love, and share a slice of homemade happiness with those you cherish.