Imagine the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts: the rich, creamy allure of cheesecake and the warm, comforting flavors of apple crumble. This Apple Crumble Cheesecake brings them together in a decadent, mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cheesecake layer, and a spiced apple crumble topping, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to indulge in something truly delightful.
Ingredients:
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Apple Crumble Topping:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Crumble Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly coat a 9-inch springform pan with grease and cover the base with a layer of parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.
- Firmly press it down using the flat side of a spoon or the base of a measuring cup.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Mix in the granulated sugar and beat until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Finally, add the sour cream and mix until just combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake filling onto the pre-cooked crust and level it with a spatula for an even surface.
- Prepare the Apple Crumble Topping:
- In a medium bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until the apples are well coated.
- Arrange the spiced apple slices evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Make the Crumble Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Incorporate the cold, diced butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
- Then, distribute the crumb topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- Chill and Serve:
- After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- When ready to serve, run a knife around the edges of the springform pan before releasing it. Slice the cheesecake and enjoy the rich, creamy layers combined with the spiced apple crumble topping.
Conclusion:
This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that marries the luxurious creaminess of cheesecake with the comforting, spiced flavors of apple crumble. The buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and sweet-tart apple topping create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to become a favorite for its irresistible combination of classic flavors. Serve it chilled and savor the delightful fusion of two beloved treats in every bite!