Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Apple Crumble Cheesecake is one of my absolute favorite desserts—a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a buttery crumble topping. I love how it brings together the coziness of apple pie and the richness of cheesecake in every delicious bite. It’s an ideal dessert for fall, holidays, or when I want to impress guests with something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this recipe irresistible because it layers flavors and textures so beautifully. The cheesecake is smooth and creamy, the apple layer adds a warm, cinnamon-spiced bite, and the crumbly topping gives it a sweet crunch. It’s indulgent, comforting, and surprisingly easy to put together with just a bit of planning. Every slice feels like a celebration.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Eggs

• Sour cream

• Apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and chopped

• Ground cinnamon

• Nutmeg

• All-purpose flour

• Rolled oats

• Unsalted butter

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Salt

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare a springform pan with parchment and a light coat of butter or cooking spray.

2. To make the crust, I mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar, then press it firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake it for about 10 minutes.

3. While the crust bakes, I beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla.

4. For the apple layer, I toss the chopped apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar until evenly coated.

5. I pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spread the apple mixture evenly on top, and set it aside.

6. For the crumble, I combine flour, oats, sugar, salt, and butter until it forms coarse crumbs, then I sprinkle it generously over the apples.

7. I bake the cheesecake for about 60–70 minutes, until the center is just set.

8. After baking, I let it cool completely, then chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours—or overnight if I have the time.

Servings and timing

This cheesecake serves about 12 people. It takes around 25 minutes to prep, 1 hour to bake, and several hours to chill, so I usually make it a day ahead to allow it to set properly.

Variations

Sometimes I mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble for extra crunch. I’ve also added caramel sauce on top just before serving for an even more decadent touch. If I want a different fruit twist, I swap the apples for pears or use a mix of both. A bit of ginger or cloves can be added to the spice mix for more depth.

Storage/Reheating

I store this cheesecake in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil. When I want a piece, I thaw it in the fridge overnight. I don’t usually reheat it, since it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use canned apple pie filling?

Yes, I can, though I prefer fresh apples for the best texture and flavor. If I use canned filling, I reduce the sugar slightly.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

I look for a center that is just set but still slightly jiggly. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Do I need a water bath?

It’s optional. I usually bake it without a water bath and let it cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar to help prevent cracks.

What apples work best?

I like using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—they hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. I actually prefer making it a day in advance because the flavor and texture improve as it chills.

Conclusion

Apple Crumble Cheesecake is everything I love in a dessert: rich, creamy, fruity, and a little bit crunchy. It’s a beautiful way to elevate a classic cheesecake with the warmth of spiced apples and a sweet crumble topping. Whether I’m celebrating a holiday or just craving something special, this dessert never fails to impress.