Apple cheesecake recipe that is absolutely stunning

As Indians, we’re no strangers to celebrating fruits in our desserts, but apple-based sweets are still somewhat of a novelty in our kitchens. While the thought of baking with apples might seem intimidating at first, it’s far simpler than it appears—and incredibly rewarding.

The sweetness and tang of apples blend beautifully with creamy textures. This Apple Crumb Cheesecake is a perfect mix of both. It’s simple to make and sure to impress. This dessert is a true showstopper!

Ingredients

For the crust

• 200 gm digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed
• 75 gm unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling

• 450 gm cream cheese, softened
• 120 gm granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 120 ml heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the apple filling

• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 50 gm granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the crumb topping

• 75 gm all-purpose flour
• 50 gm rolled oats
• 75 gm light brown sugar
• 60 gm unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C. Combine the crushed biscuits with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for six to eight minutes until the apples soften slightly and their juices thicken. Set aside to cool.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla, cinnamon, and heavy cream until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the top.
5. In a bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and chilled butter. Use your fingertips to mix until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple layer.
6. Place the springform pan on a baking tray to catch any drips. Bake at 175°C for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

When making an Apple Crumb Cheesecake, choosing the right apples is crucial; a mix of tart varieties like Himachali apples and sweet ones like Kashmiri apples ensures a balanced flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake filling. To achieve the perfect crust, make sure to press the biscuit mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to prevent it from crumbling later. Wrapping the bottom of the springform pan with foil is a great way to prevent leaks, especially if using a water bath, which helps the cheesecake bake evenly without cracking. Speaking of cracks, avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter as too much air can lead to cracks during baking—mix just until the ingredients are combined. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the apple filling. When preparing the crumb topping, keep the butter chilled; this ensures a crumbly, crunchy texture instead of a greasy one. After baking, always let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes, which can cause sinking or cracking. Once chilled, garnish with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for a visually stunning finish.

Storage

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

With its creamy filling, spiced apples, and buttery crumb topping, this Apple Crumb Cheesecake is an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

Apple Crumb Cheesecake brings the best of both worlds—comforting flavors and an elegant presentation. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable, making it ideal for family gatherings or special celebrations. Once you’ve tried it, this will become your go-to treat for impressing loved ones with ease.