Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Introduction

Apple crumble cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of apple crumble. This recipe creates a delicious dessert perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet treat. Its rich layers of cream cheese, spiced apples, and crumbly topping make it simply irresistible. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to make this impressive dish step-by-step.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Cream Cheese Layer Ingredients:

cream cheese
sugar
vanilla extract
eggs

Apple Filling Ingredients:

apples
cinnamon
nutmeg
sugar
cornstarch
lemon juice

Crumble Topping Ingredients:

flour
oats
butter
sugar
brown sugar

Prep Time

Before you dive into the baking process, be sure to have all your ingredients prepped and measured. Start by softening the cream cheese and chopping the apples into small pieces. Ensure you have ample time to set up your ingredients, as preparation is key to achieving the perfect apple crumble cheesecake.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The recipe has a straightforward cooking process. Bake the cheesecake at the suggested oven temperature until the crust is golden and the creamy layers have set. Between prep, baking, and cooling time, you’ll need a few hours; however, the results are well worth the effort. Depending on portion size, this dessert can serve a surprising number of guests or provide leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line an 8-inch (20 cm) springform pan with parchment paper.
– In a medium bowl, mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
– Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
– Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

– In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
– Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
– Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is fully combined and smooth.
– Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust in the springform pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping

– Peel, core, and slice apples into thin pieces.
– In a bowl, toss the apple pieces with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well coated.
– Arrange the spiced apple slices evenly over the cheesecake batter.

Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping

– In a medium bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
– Add in the cold cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture forms a coarse, crumbly texture.
– Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apples.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

– Bake the assembled cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
– Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Step 6: Chill the Cheesecake

– Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to fully set.

Step 7: Serve

– Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
– Slice and serve as desired.

Notes

About the Crust

– You can use store-bought graham cracker crumbs or crush whole graham crackers yourself.

Cheesecake Texture

– Make sure to beat the cream cheese until smooth to avoid lumps in the batter.

Apple Variety

– Use firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a better texture in the topping.

Cooling Process

– Cooling the cheesecake in the oven before refrigerating helps prevent cracks on the surface.

Storage

– Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

– This cheesecake can be frozen. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.

Cook Techniques

Making the Cheesecake Base

The base of the cheesecake is made using graham crackers. The crumbs are combined with melted butter and lightly pressed into the pan to form a firm bottom layer.

Preparing the Cheesecake Filling

The cream cheese filling is mixed until smooth and creamy, then eggs, sugar, and other ingredients are incorporated to achieve the perfect consistency.

Creating the Crumble Topping

The crumble consists of a mixture of flour, sugar, cold butter, and optional spices which is combined by hand or with a fork until it forms a crumb texture.

Baking the Cheesecake

The cheesecake is baked in the oven at the required temperature. The gradual process ensures the filling sets properly.

Cooling and Setting the Cheesecake

Once baked, the cheesecake needs time to cool at room temperature before being chilled in the fridge for several hours or overnight to properly set.

Serving the Cheesecake

The cheesecake is removed from the pan and sliced cleanly, served as is or garnished with toppings like whipped cream for presentation.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with other cookies or biscuit crumbs for the crust.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble. It will fully set as it cools.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How should I store leftover cheesecake?

Leftover cheesecake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, the cheesecake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.

Can I use a different fruit instead of apple for the topping?

Yes, you can substitute the apples with other fruits such as berries or pears based on your preference.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but removing the cheesecake may be more challenging.

Can I skip the crumble topping?

While the crumble adds a nice texture, you can skip it or replace it with a topping of your choice.

What is the best way to slice the cheesecake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.

Conclusion

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and crunchy crumble topping. It’s a delightful dessert that balances sweetness and texture beautifully, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a crumble fan, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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