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Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

4.6 from 93 reviews

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of apple crisp. Featuring a graham cracker crust, a smooth caramel-infused cream cheese filling, a buttery oat topping, and fresh chopped apples, this decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings. Baked in a water bath to ensure a silky texture, it’s garnished with caramel drizzle and optional whipped topping for an extra touch of indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 12 graham crackers, finely crushed
  • 6 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt

Cheesecake Filling

  • 4 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Topping & Apples

  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 4 tbsp butter, softened
  • 1 apple, peeled and finely chopped

Garnish (Optional)

  • Whipped topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease an 8- or 9-inch springform pan generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix the finely crushed graham crackers with melted butter, ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Press this mixture firmly evenly onto the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
  3. Mix Cheesecake Filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the caramel sauce and granulated sugar, continuing to beat until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon until just combined. Pour this cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust.
  4. Prepare Topping and Apples: In a medium bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar, all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Cut in the softened butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly. Evenly scatter the finely chopped peeled apple over the cheesecake filling, then sprinkle the crumb topping evenly on top.
  5. Bake with Water Bath: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan securely with aluminum foil to prevent water leakage. Place the wrapped pan in a large roasting pan and pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 90 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
  6. Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and prop the oven door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Afterward, remove the foil from the pan and transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set firmly.
  7. Serve: Before slicing, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top of the cheesecake. Optionally, garnish with whipped topping for extra creaminess and presentation. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

  • To avoid cracks, let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven after baking.
  • Make sure to securely wrap the springform pan with foil to prevent water from seeping into the cheesecake during the water bath.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother filling and to avoid lumps.
  • The apple topping can be customized with different apple varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for varied tartness or sweetness.
  • Refrigerate leftovers and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: Apple Crisp Cheesecake, caramel cheesecake, baked cheesecake, apple dessert, fall dessert, graham cracker crust, oat topping