I made this Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe on a cozy weekend when I wanted something comforting but still a little impressive. The smell alone—warm apples, cinnamon, and buttery crisp topping—filled my kitchen and made the wait totally worth it. When I finally sliced into it, the creamy cheesecake paired with tender spiced apples was pure joy.

I love how this dessert feels like two classics combined into one showstopper. If you enjoy apple desserts and cheesecake, this recipe is something I genuinely can’t stop recommending. You can also enjoy similar flavors in the New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe for a cozy dinner pairing.

Ingredients Section

Below is everything you need, along with small tips I learned while making it to get the best results.

Cream cheese – 24 oz (three 8-oz blocks), full-fat – Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. Let it soften fully so it blends smoothly without lumps.
Granulated sugar – 1 cup – This sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the apple topping.
Sour cream – ¾ cup – Sour cream adds a subtle tang and keeps the cheesecake extra creamy.
Large eggs – 3 – Eggs help the cheesecake set properly. Bring them to room temperature for even mixing.
Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons – Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
Graham cracker crumbs – 2 cups – These form the base of the crust. Finely crushed crumbs hold together better.
Unsalted butter – ½ cup, melted – Butter binds the crust and adds rich flavor. Unsalted lets you control the salt level.
Brown sugar – ½ cup – Used in the apple filling and crisp topping for a caramel-like sweetness.
All-purpose flour – ¾ cup – Helps thicken the apple filling and creates structure in the crisp topping.
Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons – Essential for that classic apple crisp flavor.
Ground nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon – Adds warmth and enhances the apples without overpowering them.
Apples – 3 large, peeled and sliced – Use firm apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and balanced sweetness.
Rolled oats – ¾ cup – Oats give the crisp topping its signature crunch.
Additional unsalted butter – ½ cup, cold and cubed – Cold butter creates a crumbly, bakery-style crisp topping.

Note: This ingredient quantity yields approximately 10–12 servings.

Variations

This apple crisp cheesecake is flexible, and you can adjust it to suit different needs or tastes. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut-based sour cream alternatives. If you want to reduce sugar, substitute part of the sugar with a granulated sugar alternative that is safe for baking. You can also add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crisp topping for extra crunch, or mix a splash of lemon juice into the apples for a brighter flavor.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of how long everything takes so you can plan ahead.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes, plus chilling time

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools makes the process much smoother.

Springform pan – allows easy removal without damaging the cheesecake
Mixing bowls – for preparing the crust, filling, and topping
Electric mixer – ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter
Saucepan – for cooking the apple filling
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
Baking sheet – placed under the pan to catch any drips

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe?

This recipe comes together in layers, and each step is simple when taken one at a time.

Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, making sure it’s compact. Bake briefly so the crust sets and doesn’t become soggy later.

Make the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add sour cream, vanilla, and eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid overbeating. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Cook the Apple Filling

In a saucepan, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Cook until the apples soften and the mixture thickens slightly. Let it cool for a few minutes before layering it over the cheesecake batter.

Prepare the Crisp Topping

Mix flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This topping adds texture and that classic apple crisp finish.

Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake filling, then sprinkle the crisp topping on top. Bake until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool gradually.

Chill and Set

Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least four hours. This chilling time helps the flavors develop and ensures clean slices when serving.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this apple crisp cheesecake a few times, I’ve picked up some tricks that really help.

I always use room-temperature ingredients to avoid lumps in the batter.
I bake the cheesecake in the lower rack so the topping doesn’t brown too fast.
I let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracks.
I slice it with a warm knife for cleaner, bakery-style slices.

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe?

This cheesecake is beautiful on its own, but a little extra effort makes it shine. Serve it chilled with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm spices. For presentation, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top or add thin apple slices as garnish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional value per serving.

Calories: Approx. 450 kcal
Protein: Around 7 g
Carbohydrates: About 45 g
Fat: Roughly 28 g

Make Ahead and Storage

This dessert is perfect for planning ahead, especially for gatherings or holidays.

Make Ahead

You can prepare the entire cheesecake a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. The flavors actually improve overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Use plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes well without the crust losing too much texture. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons this apple crisp cheesecake has become one of my favorites.

It combines two classic desserts into one irresistible treat with balanced flavors.
The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
You can customize it easily with different apples, toppings, or dietary swaps.
It’s perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you want a cozy dessert that impresses.

You can also enjoy similar comforting tastes in the New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe or the Pasta Alla Boscaiola Recipe as part of a full, cozy meal.

Ash Tyrrell