A cozy apple cheesecake you can make for fall and Thanksgiving.
introduction
This easy apple cheesecake mixes soft cream cheese with warm apple spice. It is good for family and friends at fall dinners. For a savory bake idea to enjoy with coffee, try the crustless spinach onion feta quiche as another simple recipe.
why make this recipe
You make this recipe because it is warm, sweet, and not hard. The apples add fresh flavor and the cheese makes it rich. It works for holidays and everyday treats.
how to make Apple Cheesecake
This recipe has a simple crust and a creamy top with cooked apples. Make the crust first, then the filling, then bake. Cool before you cut.
Ingredients :
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
- 1/4 cup sugar (for crust)
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sugar (for filling)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, to thicken filling)
Directions :
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mix graham crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in fridge.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/2 cup sugar, eggs one at a time, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Stir in the tablespoon of flour if you want a thicker filling.
- Toss apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread half the apples on the crust. Pour half the cream cheese filling over the apples. Add the rest of the apples, then the rest of the filling on top.
- Tap the pan on the counter to remove air bubbles. Bake 45–55 minutes until the center is almost set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 30 minutes to cool slowly. Then move to a wire rack and chill in fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Release the pan and slice to serve.
For a lighter, fluffy dessert idea, you can also try a 2-ingredient Japanese cheesecake as a different style of cheese cake.
how to serve Apple Cheesecake
Serve cold or at room temperature. Add a dust of cinnamon or a small spoon of whipped cream. You can top with extra warm apple slices or a drizzle of caramel. Cut with a hot knife for neat slices.
how to store Apple Cheesecake
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze slices for up to 2 months; wrap each slice in foil and place in a freezer bag.
tips to make Apple Cheesecake
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Do not overbeat once you add the eggs. Mix just until blended.
- Chill well before slicing to get clean pieces.
- If apples release too much juice, cook them 3–5 minutes first to remove liquid.
- For a cozy breakfast idea, serve a small slice with a warm piece of Amish cinnamon bread.
variation (if any)
- Add a streusel topping: mix flour, butter, brown sugar, and oats and sprinkle on top before baking.
- Swap graham crust for a shortbread crust.
- Use pears instead of apples for a milder fruit flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned apples?
A: Fresh apples give the best texture, but you can use drained canned apples if needed.
Q: Do I need a springform pan?
A: A springform pan makes it easy to remove the cheesecake, but you can use a regular pan and lift the cake out carefully.
Q: How long should I bake the cheesecake?
A: Bake 45–55 minutes. The center should still jiggle slightly when you tap the pan.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use gluten-free crackers for the crust and a gluten-free flour substitute if you use flour in the filling.
Q: Can I halve the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a smaller pan and check baking time earlier.
Conclusion
If you like apple desserts, you might also enjoy the fall twist of an apple cider donut bundt cake for a party. For a sweet bar version with rich caramel and apples, try the salted caramel apple pie bars – Sally’s Baking Addiction. For another spiced apple cake idea, see this cinnamon apple crumb cake recipe.