If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly marries the warm, comforting flavors of fall with creamy indulgence, the Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender cinnamon-spiced apples nestled atop a smooth, velvety cheesecake, all crowned with a buttery oat streusel that adds the perfect crunch. This delightful twist on classic apple crisp and cheesecake delivers layers of texture and flavor in every bite, making it an unforgettable treat to share with loved ones or savor solo on a cozy afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are three green apples grouped together at the bottom left. Above them are small white bowls filled with oats, brown sugar, and flour mixed with cinnamon. A clear glass bowl on the right contains broken graham crackers, beside which is a small white bowl with melted butter. Moving upward, a dark bowl holds two large slabs of cream cheese, and next to it on the right is another white bowl with a creamy white substance. Four whole eggs are lined up near the center, surrounded by small white bowls with granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. Two glass containers hold milk and a yellow liquid, possibly melted butter or oil. The ingredients are spaced evenly, creating a clear, organized layout. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in building the rich taste, creamy texture, and beautiful presentation of the Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe. From the crunchy oat topping that gives a lovely contrast to the smooth cheesecake to the bright, tart apples that cut through the richness, every component shines.

Old-fashioned rolled oats (1/3 cup): Provides a hearty texture and wholesome crunch for the streusel topping.
All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Helps bind the streusel ingredients together perfectly.
Light brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle caramel sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor to the streusel.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon plus 1/2 teaspoon): Introduces cozy spice notes to both the streusel and crust.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons melted for streusel, 1/2 cup melted for crust): Infuses richness and helps create that tender, crumbly texture you want.
Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): Forms a sturdy, flavorful base that complements the creamy filling.
Granulated sugar (1/3 cup for crust, 3/4 cup for filling, plus 2 teaspoons for apple filling): Sweetens each layer just right, without overpowering.
Cream cheese (32 oz, softened): The superstar that makes this cheesecake luxuriously creamy and smooth.
Brown sugar (1/3 cup in filling, 1 1/2 tablespoons for apple filling): Adds depth with its rich, slightly smoky sweetness.
Eggs (3 large): Bind everything together while giving the cheesecake its signature texture.
Sour cream (1/3 cup): Adds tang and helps keep the cheesecake luscious and moist.
Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Enhances creaminess and richness.
Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Brings warm, fragrant notes that tie all the flavors together beautifully.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Stabilizes the filling for a silky consistency.
Apples (3 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Fresh, tart slices add a crisp contrast and classic autumn flavor.
Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Keeps the apple slices bright and prevents browning.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, aromatic warmth to the apple filling.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Create the Oat Streusel Topping

Start by mixing your rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This combination is the essence of that crunchy, flavorful topping you’ll adore. Then, pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture feels like cookie dough. Pop it in the fridge to keep it ready for later—it’s going to add the perfect finishing touch to your cheesecake!

Step 2: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

The crust sets the stage for this dessert, so give it some love. Preheat your oven to 325°F and wrap your 9-inch springform pan’s bottom and sides tightly with three layers of heavy-duty foil to guard against water leaks. Now, mix your graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter until all crumbs are thoroughly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom and sides to form an even layer. Bake it for 10 minutes and then set it aside to cool—this crust will be sturdy enough to hold all that creamy filling and crisp apples.

Step 3: Toss the Apple Filling

For the fruity centerpiece, thinly slice your peeled and cored apples, then toss them with granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl until they’re thoroughly coated. This spice-kissed fruit layer will provide a bright, tangy counterpoint to the rich cheesecake beneath it.

Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat your softened cream cheese with granulated and brown sugars until ultracreamy and smooth—this takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is the secret behind that dreamy cheesecake texture. Next, stir in the cornstarch for stability. Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until everything is silky and perfectly combined. Slowly add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition, scraping down the bowl’s sides so everything blends evenly.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Arrange your spiced apple slices in an even layer on top—if they’ve released a lot of juice, leave it behind to avoid soggy spots. Sprinkle the chilled oat streusel evenly over the apple layer to create that inviting crunch on top. Set your springform pan inside a large roasting pan and pour boiling water halfway up the pan’s side to create a gentle water bath; this helps bake the cheesecake evenly and prevents cracking. Bake in the oven for 60 to 80 minutes until the edges are set but the center still gently jiggles.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Turn off your oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour—this slow cooling helps keep cracks away. Once at room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor infusion. When ready, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and slice your masterpiece.

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe

A round pan holds three stages of a dessert. The first stage shows a smooth, cream-colored layer filling a golden-brown crust that lines the pan’s edges and bottom. The second stage adds a thick, uneven layer of light green and yellow chopped fruit pieces on top of the cream filling, filling the pan fully with a slightly rough, chunky texture. The third stage covers the fruit with a crumbly, tan brown topping that looks dry and crunchy, fully spread out to cover the fruit underneath. All images have a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe to the next level. For an extra touch of elegance, finely chopped toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds subtle texture and fragrance, making every bite feel decadent and inviting.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving this at a gathering, pair it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small bowl of spiced apple compote to echo the fruity flavors. A cup of hot chai tea or freshly brewed coffee complements the spices beautifully and balances the richness, making your dessert experience fully satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, serve individual portions of the Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe in mason jars layered with extra streusel or fresh apple slices on top. Alternatively, offering mini cheesecake bites alongside caramel popcorn or cinnamon sugar dusted churros can turn your dessert into a conversation starter full of fun and variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully chilled, store any leftover Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen, making each slice even more enjoyable the next day.

Freezing

If you want to make this cheesecake ahead of time or save leftovers longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices securely in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cheesecake portions will maintain their quality for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Since this cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer a warm dessert, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it can alter the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their tartness and firmness, you can also try Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala apples. Just be sure to pick varieties that hold their shape and have a balance of sweet and tart flavors for the best result.

Is it necessary to use a water bath when baking the cheesecake?

While not absolutely mandatory, the water bath makes a huge difference in achieving that perfect cheesecake texture. It prevents the edges from baking too quickly and cracking, ensuring a smooth, creamy center that’s so delightful.

Can I make the oat streusel topping vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter in the streusel with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Keep in mind this might slightly change the flavor and texture, but it will still deliver a tasty crunchy topping.

How long does it take to make this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe from start to finish?

Including prep, baking, cooling, and chilling, expect to spend about 6 to 8 hours total. Much of this is hands-off time while the cheesecake bakes and sets in the fridge—totally worth it for the incredible flavor payoff!

Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?

Using a springform pan is best for easy removal and presentation, but if you don’t have one, you can use a deep-dish pie pan lined with parchment paper. Just be gentle when removing slices, as it won’t come out as easily as it does with a springform.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe that makes it a standout dessert worthy of any celebration or cozy night in. Rich, creamy, fruity, and crunchy all at once, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and treat yourself and your friends to a slice of autumnal heaven that’s as rewarding to make as it is delicious to eat.