Go Back
A luscious slice of Apple Crisp Cheesecake featuring a creamy filling, streusel topping, and generous caramel drizzle on a white plate.
Daniel

Apple Crisp Cheesecake

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer with a warmly spiced apple topping and a buttery, oat-filled crisp, making for an irresistible dessert that's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 570

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar divided
  • 6 tbsp Unsalted butter melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 2 packages Cream cheese 8 oz each, softened, room temperature
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar divided
  • 3 Large eggs room temperature
  • 1/2 cup Sour cream
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
For the Apple Topping
  • 4 medium Baking apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar divided
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon divided
For the Crisp Topping
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup Rolled oats old-fashioned
  • 1/2 cup Light brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon divided
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter 1 stick, cold, cut into small pieces

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Electric Hand Mixer
  • Small saucepan
  • Vegetable Peeler
  • Large roasting pan (for water bath)

Method
 

Prepare Oven and Pan
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath. Lightly grease the inside of the pan.
Make the Crust
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the fillings.
Prepare the Apple Topping
  1. While the crust bakes, combine the sliced apples, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and set aside to cool completely.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
Assemble the Cheesecake
  1. Pour about half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Carefully spoon the cooled apple topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Gently pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the apples, spreading it to cover the apples completely.
Make the Crisp Topping
  1. In a separate medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, light brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Add the cold, diced butter and use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Topping and Bake
  1. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the cheesecake batter. Place the foil-wrapped springform pan into a large roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle. The internal temperature should reach 150°F (65°C).
Cool and Chill
  1. Carefully remove the springform pan from the water bath and place it on a wire rack. Run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake before it cools completely to prevent cracking. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving. Remove the springform rim just before serving.

Notes

For the best cheesecake texture, ensure all cold ingredients (cream cheese, eggs, sour cream) are at room temperature. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy batter. nDon't overmix the cheesecake batter once the eggs are added; overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake. nGranny Smith apples are fantastic for this recipe because their tartness balances the sweetness of the cheesecake and their firm texture holds up well during cooking and baking. Honeycrisp or Braeburn also work beautifully.