Apple Crisp Cheesecake – Best Fall Dessert Recipe

If you love cheesecake and apple crisp, why not enjoy them together? This Apple Crisp Cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker crust, cinnamon-spiced cheesecake filling, and a sweet apple cinnamon topping finished with a crunchy oat streusel. It’s the perfect dessert for fall, Thanksgiving, or whenever you crave something warm, comforting, and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Perfect Fall Flavor Combination – A mix of rich cheesecake and spiced apple crisp.
• Creamy and Crunchy Texture – Smooth cheesecake pairs with a crunchy oat topping.
• Great for Holidays and Special Occasions – A crowd-pleaser for any dessert table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and chill overnight for the best results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Apple Topping:

• 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 32 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• ⅔ cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, room temperature

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add the melted butter and mix until small clumps form.
3. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the cheesecake.

Step 2: Make the Apple Topping

1. Toss thinly sliced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
2. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour in melted butter and stir until all crumbs are moistened.
4. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides.
5. Bake for 9-10 minutes until golden brown, then let cool.
6. Lower oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat cream cheese, sugar, and brown sugar on low speed until smooth.
2. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon and mix until combined.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and scraping the sides of the bowl after each addition.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Arrange the apple slices over the cheesecake filling.
2. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the apples.
3. Place a roasting pan with 1 inch of boiling water on the bottom oven rack.
4. Place the cheesecake on the middle rack, above the roasting pan (this creates steam to prevent cracks).
5. Bake for 1 hour 10-15 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

1. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
2. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
3. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cheesecake from the pan.
4. Refrigerate overnight for best results.

Serving Suggestions

• Drizzle with Salted Caramel Sauce – Adds extra decadence!
• Top with Whipped Cream – A light, airy contrast to the rich cheesecake.
• Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing for warm flavors.
• Garnish with Fresh Apple Slices – For an elegant presentation.

Expert Tips for the Best Apple Crisp Cheesecake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling.
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can incorporate air, leading to cracks.
• Let It Cool Gradually: A slow cooling process prevents cracks on the surface.
• Chill Overnight: The flavors deepen and the texture firms up beautifully.
• Use a Water Bath Alternative: Instead of wrapping the pan in foil, place a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack to create moisture.

Related Recipes:

Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars

Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake

Brownie Bottom Cheesecake

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This cheesecake actually tastes better when made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze Apple Crisp Cheesecake?

Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

3. What type of apples work best for this cheesecake?

Granny Smith apples are the best choice because they hold their shape and provide a tart contrast to the sweet cheesecake.

4. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing, cool gradually, and use a steam-filled oven for even baking.

5. Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?

Yes! Try using digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or gingersnap cookies for a unique twist.

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is a must-try for fall and holiday gatherings. With its warm spices, creamy filling, and crunchy oat topping, it’s a dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try this recipe today and let me know how it turns out in the comments!