Fall Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Sweet, Spiced & Delicious

This Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the ultimate fall dessert mash-up: a rich and velvety New York-style cheesecake, a warm and juicy cinnamon apple filling, and a buttery, golden streusel crumble on top. All layered over a crisp graham cracker crust, this dessert has all the cozy flavors of an apple crisp with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake.

It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want to impress your guests with a dessert that combines texture, flavor, and comfort in every bite.

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The Best of Two Desserts in One

When you can’t choose between cheesecake and apple crumble—why not have both? This Apple Crumble Cheesecake layers the best parts of both iconic desserts: buttery crust, spiced apples, a tangy-sweet cheesecake center, and a golden brown streusel topping.

It’s a dessert made for sweater weather and special occasions. Imagine slicing into a thick, creamy cheesecake and finding warm cinnamon apples and a sweet crumble topping waiting inside. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce, and you’ve got something unforgettable.

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Ingredient Overview: Layer by Layer Breakdown

Graham Cracker Crust

• Made with crushed graham crackers and melted butter.

• Adds crunch and a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy cheesecake.

Cream Cheese

• The base of the filling. Use full-fat, room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth, rich texture.

Sugar

• Granulated sugar sweetens the filling and balances the tang of the cream cheese.

• Brown sugar is used in the crumble and apples for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.

Eggs

• Bind the cheesecake and help it set properly.

Sour Cream

• Adds creaminess and a slight tang, making the cheesecake texture extra luscious.

Vanilla Extract

• Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the spice in the apples and crumble.

Apples

• Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.

• Peeled and sliced or diced, then tossed in sugar and spice.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg

• Warm spices that make the apples taste like pie filling.

All-Purpose Flour

• Used in the crumble topping to create a crisp, buttery texture.

Butter

• Softened butter is used in the crumble to bind it and give it golden richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Build the Perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.

3. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment on the bottom.

4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

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Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Ingredients:

• 2 cups peeled, diced apples

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• 1 tbsp flour

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice.

2. Let sit while preparing the cheesecake batter to release juices.

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Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Ingredients:

• 3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¾ cup sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth (2–3 minutes).

2. Add sugar and beat again until fluffy.

3. Mix in eggs one at a time, beating on low.

4. Stir in vanilla and sour cream until fully incorporated.

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Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping

Ingredients:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ⅓ cup brown sugar

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, sugar, and cinnamon.

2. Cut in the butter with a fork or fingertips until crumbly and sandy in texture.

3. Set aside.

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Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

2. Evenly distribute the apple mixture on top of the cheesecake batter.

3. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples.

4. Bake at 325°F for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

5. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool for 1 hour.

6. Remove and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Cheesecake Success

• Use room temp ingredients to avoid lumps in your batter.

• Avoid overmixing once eggs are added—this can cause cracks.

• Cool gradually to prevent collapsing or cracking.

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Variations

• Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake: Drizzle caramel sauce on top before serving.

• Apple Pie Swirl Cheesecake: Swirl cooked apples into the batter instead of layering.

• Mini Cheesecakes: Use muffin tins with liners for individual servings. Bake for 18–20 minutes.

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Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use GF graham crackers and a gluten-free flour blend for the crumble.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream substitutes.

• Fruit Swap: Try pears or berries for seasonal variations.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a stunning addition to:

• Thanksgiving and Christmas tables

• Fall birthdays or family dinners

• Brunch spreads or bake sales

• Any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort

Serving Tip:
Serve chilled or slightly warmed with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This cheesecake is indulgent, but it offers the satisfaction of two desserts in one—so you can enjoy a smaller portion and still feel fully treated.

Approximate per slice (1 of 12):

• Calories: 410

• Fat: 29g

• Carbs: 32g

• Sugar: 22g

• Protein: 6g

To lighten it up:

• Use light cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream

• Cut back sugar by ¼ cup in the filling

• Use less crumble topping or skip the crust for a crustless version

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, canned apple pie filling works well in a pinch, but fresh apples give a better texture and flavor. If using canned, reduce the sugar in the topping.

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2. Can I freeze apple crumble cheesecake?

Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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3. What’s the best type of apple to use?

Granny Smith is ideal for tartness and structure. Honeycrisp or Braeburn are great sweet-tart options that hold their shape.

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4. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Use room-temp ingredients, avoid overmixing, bake low and slow, and cool in the oven before chilling.

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5. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Make 1–2 days ahead and store covered in the fridge.

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6. What pan should I use?

A 9-inch springform pan is essential for easy release. Line the bottom with parchment for cleaner slicing.

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7. Can I skip the crumble topping?

You can—but it adds texture and flavor. If skipping, consider topping with caramel or whipped cream after chilling.

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