Introduction
The first time I made apple crumble cheesecake, it was purely by accident. I had been craving a classic cheesecake but also wanted the warm, spiced flavors of an apple crumble. Instead of choosing one, I decided to combine both into a single dessert—and it turned out to be one of the best kitchen experiments I’ve ever done! The contrast of creamy cheesecake, tender cinnamon apples, and a crispy crumble topping was absolutely irresistible.
Since then, this has become one of my go-to desserts for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. It’s the perfect mix of textures and flavors—rich and creamy, warmly spiced, and satisfyingly crunchy. Best of all, it’s easy to make ahead, so you don’t have to stress about last-minute baking.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make the perfect apple crumble cheesecake, from the buttery crust to the indulgent topping. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekend treat or a special occasion, this dessert is guaranteed to impress!
Why This Recipe Works
Perfect Balance of Textures
Every bite of apple crumble cheesecake delivers the perfect contrast—smooth, velvety cheesecake, tender spiced apples, and a crisp, buttery crumble. The textures blend beautifully, making this dessert completely irresistible.
Warm & Cozy Flavors
The mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and caramelized apples fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma that screams fall. Beyond its flavor, cinnamon is packed with health benefits, from helping regulate blood sugar to reducing inflammation. Read more about its benefits in this detailed guide.
Easy Make-Ahead Dessert
Since cheesecake tastes even better after chilling, this is the perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays or dinner parties. Bake it a day in advance, and you’ll wake up to a perfectly set, flavor-packed treat ready to serve.
What You’ll Need to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Simple Ingredients for Big Flavor
One of the best things about this apple crumble cheesecake is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Graham crackers or digestive biscuits – These form the base of the cheesecake, creating a buttery, slightly sweet crust.
- Butter – Helps bind the crust and adds richness to the crumble topping.
- Cream cheese – The heart of the cheesecake filling, giving it a smooth and creamy texture.
- Sugar – Sweetens both the cheesecake and the apple layer. Brown sugar is best for the crumble topping to add a hint of caramel flavor.
- Eggs – Essential for structure, helping the cheesecake set properly.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness, bringing out the rich flavors of the cheesecake.
- Apples – Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg – Warm spices that bring out the rich, comforting flavors of the apple layer.
- Flour and oats – Used in the crumble topping to add texture and crispness.
Essential Tools for Easy Preparation
Making apple crumble cheesecake doesn’t require any fancy equipment, just a few key kitchen tools:
- Springform pan – This ensures easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging the crust.
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need separate bowls for the crust, filling, and crumble topping.
- Hand or stand mixer – Helps blend the cream cheese mixture to a smooth consistency.
- Saucepan – Used to lightly sauté the apples with cinnamon and sugar before adding them to the cheesecake.
- Baking sheet – Placing the cheesecake on a baking sheet helps prevent spills and makes it easier to handle.
With these ingredients and tools, you’re all set to create a decadent apple crumble cheesecake that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Making apple crumble cheesecake is easier than it sounds! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a rich, creamy dessert with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Make the Crust
- Crush the crackers – Place the graham crackers or digestive biscuits in a food processor and blend until fine crumbs form. If you don’t have a food processor, place them in a sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Mix with butter – Melt the butter and stir it into the crumbs until evenly combined. The mixture should have a moist, crumbly texture that holds together when pressed.
- Press into the pan – Transfer the crust mixture to a springform pan and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass. Refrigerate the crust to help it set while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla – One at a time, add the eggs, beating on low speed after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour over the crust – Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Cook the Apples
- Slice and sauté the apples – Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin pieces. In a saucepan over medium heat, cook them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until soft and caramelized.
- Layer over the cheesecake – Evenly distribute the cooked apples on top of the cheesecake filling.
Add the Crumble Topping
- Make the crumble – In a small bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle on top – Evenly scatter the crumble mixture over the apples. If you love crispy, golden toppings, you might also enjoy these Funnel Cake Fries—a fun, carnival-inspired dessert with a delightful crunch.
Bake & Cool
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) – Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the center is slightly set but still jiggly.
- Cool and refrigerate – Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow it to set completely.
Once chilled, slice and enjoy your delicious apple crumble cheesecake!
Tips and Hacks
Keep the Crumble Crunchy
One common issue with apple crumble cheesecake is the crumble topping becoming soggy. To keep it crisp, bake the crumble separately on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, then sprinkle it over the cheesecake before serving. This way, it stays crunchy without absorbing too much moisture from the apples.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
For a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, always use room temperature cream cheese and eggs. Using cold ingredients may result in a batter that isn’t smooth, affecting the cheesecake’s texture. If you forget to take them out in advance, soften the cream cheese in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, and place eggs in warm water for a few minutes.
Let It Chill for the Best Texture
Cheesecake always tastes better the next day. Refrigerating it overnight allows the flavors to develop fully, and the texture becomes even more velvety. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 4 hours in the fridge will still give good results.
Add a Caramel Drizzle for Extra Indulgence
Want to take your apple crumble cheesecake to the next level? Pour warm caramel sauce over each slice just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness. The combination of caramel, apples, and cheesecake makes every bite even more decadent!
Nutrition Score
A Balanced Indulgence
While apple crumble cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert, it also provides a satisfying mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. By using natural sweeteners and fresh apples, you can enjoy a delicious treat without unnecessary additives.
Estimated Nutritional Values (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
Adjusting for Dietary Preferences
- Lower-Calorie Version: Reduce the sugar in the filling and use Greek yogurt instead of some cream cheese.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap cream cheese for dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut oil in place of butter.
- Lower-Sugar Option: Use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey instead of refined sugar.
With these small tweaks, you can customize your apple crumble cheesecake to better fit your dietary needs while still enjoying its rich flavors.
Print
Apple Crumble Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 10 1x
Description
A decadent combination of creamy cheesecake, spiced apple filling, and a buttery crumble topping. Perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Apple Layer:
- 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon butter
- For the Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Make the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Pour over the crust.
- Cook the Apples: In a saucepan over medium heat, cook apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter until soft. Spread over the cheesecake filling.
- Make the Crumble Topping: Mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the apples.
- Bake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50 minutes, until the center is slightly set.
- Cool & Chill: Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
For a crunchier crumble, bake it separately and add before serving.
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother texture.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Slice
- Calories: ~320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g
Serving & Storage
Best Way to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Serve the cheesecake cold to enjoy its best texture and flavor. The creamy filling holds its shape better when cold, and the flavors are more pronounced. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
To get clean, even slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between cuts. This prevents the creamy cheesecake from sticking to the blade.
Proper Storage for Freshness
To keep your apple crumble cheesecake fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap. It remains fresh when stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, slice the cheesecake and wrap each piece in parchment paper, then place them in a sealed container. It can be kept in the freezer for as long as three months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Avoid Soggy Crumble: If you want to maintain a crispy topping, store the crumble separately and add it just before serving.
With these storage methods, you can enjoy apple crumble cheesecake anytime, whether fresh or frozen!
Variations
No-Bake Apple Crumble Cheesecake
If you want to skip the oven, try a no-bake version by using a gelatin-set cheesecake filling instead of baking. Simply mix softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and whipped cream, then fold in dissolved gelatin for stability. Assemble the layers as usual and refrigerate for at least 6 hours until set.
Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake
For a dairy-free and egg-free version, replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and swap butter for coconut oil in both the crust and crumble. Use maple syrup or coconut sugar for natural sweetness, and substitute a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for binding if needed.
Gluten-Free Apple Crumble Cheesecake
To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust and swap regular flour in the crumble for almond flour or oat flour. The rest of the recipe stays the same, so you can still enjoy a rich, flavorful cheesecake without the gluten.
These variations allow you to adapt apple crumble cheesecake to different dietary needs while keeping all the delicious flavors intact!
FAQs
What’s the best way to keep apple crumble crisp?
To keep the crumble crispy, bake it separately on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, then sprinkle it over the cheesecake just before serving. This helps keep it from becoming too moist.
How to fix a crumbly cheesecake?
A cheesecake that falls apart is often overbaked or lacking enough fat. Reduce baking time slightly and ensure you’re using full-fat cream cheese. Adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to the batter can also help improve stability.
How do you store apple crumble after baking?
Once cooled, store apple crumble cheesecake in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep it fresh.
Can I prep apple crumble the night before?
Yes! You can prepare all components separately and assemble them just before serving for the best texture. This is especially useful if you want a crisp crumble topping.
Is it possible to store unbaked apple crumble in the refrigerator?
Yes, you can store unbaked crumble in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover it to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out.
How do you store apple crumb pie overnight?
If you have an apple crumb pie, you can store it at room temperature for one day if covered. For longer storage, refrigerate it to keep the apples and crumble fresh.
These FAQs help troubleshoot common cheesecake and crumble questions so you can get the best results every time!
Conclusion
Apple crumble cheesecake is the perfect dessert when you can’t decide between creamy cheesecake and warm, spiced apple crumble—so why not enjoy both? With its buttery crust, smooth filling, cinnamon-kissed apples, and crunchy topping, this recipe brings together the best of two classic desserts in one irresistible bite.
The best part about this cheesecake is its versatility. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a no-bake, vegan, or gluten-free variation, there’s a way for everyone to enjoy it. Plus, since it can be made ahead and stored, it’s the ideal dessert for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving something indulgent.
Now that you have the full step-by-step guide, it’s time to try making your own apple crumble cheesecake. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy, and spiced bite, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings!