Apple Crumble Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then let me introduce you to my beloved Apple Crumble Cheesecake. This delightful treat combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of spiced apples and buttery crumble. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply indulging on a cozy weeknight at home. Each bite is a celebration of textures and flavors that will surely impress your loved ones.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—it’s an all-time crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring smiles. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! So grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly and perfect for busy bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesecake, and when you add apples and crumble, it becomes irresistible for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dessert in advance, making it ideal for parties or potlucks.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and crunchy crumble creates a harmonious blend that delights the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this scrumptious Apple Crumble Cheesecake. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

For the Crust

• 350 g Lotus biscoff cookies
• 150 g unsalted butter (melted)

For the Streusel Topping

• 55 g unsalted butter (melted)
• 50 g all-purpose flour
• 50 g brown sugar
• 20 g rolled oats

For the Filling

• 3 tart apples (peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/8 thick slices)
• 50 g brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 690 g cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 75 g granulated sugar
• 100 g Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)

Variations

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Extra Spice: Consider mixing in some nutmeg or allspice for an even warmer flavor profile.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out the apples for pears or peaches for a delightful twist.
• Go Nutty: Sprinkle some chopped nuts into the streusel topping for added crunch.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free cookies for the crust and use a gluten-free flour blend in the topping.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by crushing the biscoff cookies in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs. This will be the base of our cheesecake. Mixing them with melted butter creates a rich crust that holds everything together beautifully. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan and set it aside while we work on our filling.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. This step brings out their natural sweetness while ensuring they don’t become too watery during baking. Let these sit as we prepare our cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Adding Greek yogurt gives our cheesecake a light tanginess that balances out all those sweet flavors. Then mix in eggs one at a time to keep everything fluffy. Finally, stir in vanilla extract and spices—this will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step 4: Assemble Your Cheesecake

Pour half of your cheesecake filling over the crust, followed by half of the apple mixture. Repeat with the remaining filling and apples. This layering creates beautiful swirls of flavor throughout your cheesecake.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and bake for about 70-85 minutes until it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remember to turn off the oven once done but leave the door ajar; letting it cool slowly helps prevent cracks on top.

Step 6: Add Streusel Topping

While your cheesecake cools slightly, mix together melted butter, flour, brown sugar, oats, and any nuts if you chose to add them for that lovely crumbly topping! Sprinkle it generously over the cooled cake before returning it to bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

Once baked, allow your cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating it for at least four hours—or overnight if you can resist! This chilling time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Now you’re ready to slice into this delicious Apple Crumble Cheesecake! Enjoy every bite with friends and family; it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Making an apple crumble cheesecake can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly!

• Crust Perfection: Make sure to press the biscoff cookie crust firmly into the pan. This helps create a sturdy base that won’t crumble when you slice into your cheesecake.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use cream cheese and eggs at room temperature. This allows for easier mixing and helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.

• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Mix the cheesecake batter just until combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing cracks in your cheesecake as it bakes and cools.

• Use a Water Bath: If possible, bake your cheesecake in a water bath to prevent it from drying out and help maintain its creamy consistency. This ensures even baking and reduces the chances of cracks forming on the surface.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow the cheesecake to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight). Chilling enhances the flavors and helps set the filling for cleaner slices.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Serving your apple crumble cheesecake is just as important as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this sweet creation beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought vegan caramel over each slice elevates both presentation and flavor.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon not only looks beautiful but also enhances the warm spices in your dessert.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cheesecake, making for a balanced dessert plate.
• Vanilla Almond Milk: A glass of chilled vanilla almond milk pairs wonderfully with this dessert, offering a creamy drink that’s dairy-free.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can cleanse the palate after indulging in this rich dessert while adding a fresh element to your meal.
• Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea complements the flavors in your cheesecake beautifully, making it an inviting treat for any occasion.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to delighting friends and family with your fabulous apple crumble cheesecake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This apple crumble cheesecake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors over several days or for special occasions. With a little planning, you can enjoy this dessert fresh and delicious whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If possible, keep the streusel topping separate until ready to serve for optimal crunch.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of cheesecake in plastic wrap for easy portioning.
• Place wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave on low power for about 30 seconds to a minute, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making your apple crumble cheesecake!

Can I make Apple Crumble Cheesecake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer to maintain a creamy texture.

How do I prevent my Apple Crumble Cheesecake from cracking?

To minimize cracking, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature and avoid overmixing. Additionally, baking it in a water bath can help regulate temperature.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

Absolutely! Feel free to reduce the sugar or use alternative sweeteners if you prefer a less sweet dessert.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying this apple crumble cheesecake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that combines comforting flavors of spiced apples and creamy cheesecake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to bring joy. Enjoy every slice and don’t forget to share your experience!