Best Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe
Introduction
Is there any dessert more comforting than the warm, spiced notes of a classic apple crumble? Now, imagine that cozy feeling transformed into the richest, creamiest no-bake cheesecake you’ve ever tasted. This incredible Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats recipe does exactly that, because it combines two beloved desserts into one stunning showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s the perfect treat to bridge the gap between summer’s ease and autumn’s warmth, so everyone will absolutely adore a taste of the season.
This Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats is a no-bake masterpiece that layers a buttery biscuit base with a velvety, spiced cheesecake filling and a generous topping of tender, cinnamon-scented apples and crunchy oat crumble. Its significance lies in that genius fusion, so you get the creamy indulgence of cheesecake and the rustic, comforting texture of a fruit crumble in every single bite. This dessert perfectly aligns with my philosophy of creating impressive yet accessible recipes, although it requires no special equipment or advanced baking skills. It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert for entertaining, because it sets firmly in the fridge. For more ways to enjoy no-bake treats, explore our popular No-Bake Desserts collection. The use of wholesome ingredients like oats and fresh apples also makes it a slightly indulgent but thoughtful dessert, much like the options you’ll find in our guide to Healthy Snacks for when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Why I Love This Recipe
I genuinely love this Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats because it solves the ultimate dessert dilemma. It delivers that deep, satisfying flavor of a baked good without ever turning on my oven, which is a total game-changer during the warmer months. The contrast between the cool, smooth filling and the sweet, spiced apple topping with its delightful crunch is pure magic in every spoonful. It feels both elegantly special and wonderfully familiar, so it is my absolute go-to when I want to treat my family or impress guests with minimal effort.
Health and Nutrition
Why it’s good for your body
Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats offers a surprisingly wholesome profile because it starts with a foundation of real apples. This fruit provides essential dietary fiber, which actively supports your digestive health and helps you feel satisfied. Furthermore, apples are a natural source of vitamin C and various antioxidants, so they contribute to a strong immune system. Although it is a dessert, this cheesecake delivers valuable nutrients you can feel good about.
The creamy filling in Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats typically contains dairy, which is an excellent source of calcium and protein for maintaining strong bones and muscles. While enjoying a slice, you are also treating your body to these benefits. Even though it is indulgent, this dessert cleverly incorporates better-for-you ingredients. Consequently, every bite of Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats feels like a nourishing choice as well as a delicious one.
How it fits in a healthy lifestyle
This dessert fits perfectly into a balanced diet because it satisfies a sweet craving without derailing your goals. You can mindfully enjoy a slice as part of your overall eating pattern, which is key to sustainable health. For those with specific dietary needs, the recipe can often be adapted; use almond flour for a gluten-free crust or a sugar substitute to lower the carb count. Practically speaking, it is a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks, preventing less healthy last-minute choices.
Pairing a smaller portion with a source of protein, like a scoop of Greek yogurt, can make it an even more balanced treat. Understanding the principles of intuitive eating helps you enjoy foods like this cheesecake without guilt. Remember, a healthy lifestyle includes all foods in moderation. For more ideas on incorporating treats into your plan, explore our guide on healthy snacking and meal prep.
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Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Apple crumble cheesecake with a cinnamon and nutmeg cookie crust, cheesecake filling and topped with cinnamon sugar apples and crumble.
- Total Time: 130 mins
- Yield: 10 people 1x
Ingredients
- 200 g digestive or graham crackers
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1,5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1,5 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 50 g butter (melted)
- 150 g apple (diced small (1–2 apples))
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 100 g all-purpose flour
- 80 g dark brown sugar
- 70 g butter (room temperature)
- 600 g cream cheese (full fat, room temperature)
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 150 g sour cream 14-18% (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven at 160ºC/325ºF, conventional oven.
- In a food processor, add the cookies, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg and blend it all together until a fine sand-like texture. Melt the butter. Add the melted butter to the food processor and blend it together with the blended cookies.
- In a 22 cm spring cake pan add parchment paper to the bottom. Add the cookie crumble and press the cookie crust down with the bottom of a glass, and up agains the side of the pan, so it’s well packed together and flattened out.
- Bake it for 10 min. Then let it cool down so that it’s cool to touch.
- While the crust cools down, prepare the apples and the crumble.
- Dice the apples into small cubes and toss them in granulated sugar and cinnamon. Overtime the sugar will drag out some of the liquid in the apples, avoid adding that to the cheesecake when placing the apples.
- Add flour, brown sugar and butter to another bowl. Mix it together by hand or with an electric hand mixer, until it forms a crumble structure. Set aside both toppings while making the cheesecake filling.
- Preheat the oven at 160ºC.
- With a hand mixer or in a stand mix using the paddle attachment, cream the cream cheese for 1 min on low speed. Then gradually add the granulated sugar. Once all the granulated sugar is added, scrape down the sides of the bowl and let it mix for 1 min on low speed.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and cornstarch until smooth. Add it to the cream cheese with the vanilla extract and let it mix on low speed until combined. Then add one egg at a time and let it mix on low speed until combined. Once all the eggs have mixed in, scrape down the sides of the bowl and give it a final mix to make sure all the ingredients have incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the spring pan. Gently divide the cinnamon sugar apples first on top of cheesecake, followed by the crumble.
- Boil up water in a kettle. Place the springform pan in a 25 cm/10 inch cake pan. Place the cake pan in another baking pan or roasting pan and fill it with hot water 2/3 up the side of the pan. This method will prevent water from getting into the crust.
- Alternatively, add a triple layer of aluminium foil around the cake pan to safely seal it from the water before placing it in a water bath. There might be a possibility of water leaking in, so make sure it's covered well if choosing this method.
- Bake for 1 hour and 20-30 min.
- Once the time has passed, give the tray a very gentle shake. The cheesecake should still be a bit wobbly in the middle. Turn off the oven and have the oven door slightly open and let the cheesecake cool down in the oven for 1 hour.
- Then take it out of the oven and remove it from the water bath. Take off the aluminum foil and place the cheesecake on a cooling rack. Let it cool down fully for about 1 hour to room temperature.
- Finally, once at room temperature, place it in the fridge and let it set for at least 6 hours, preferable overnight.
Notes
The cheesecake is done when it only slightly jiggles in the center when gently shaken. Sour cream can be replaced 1:1 with full-fat Greek yogurt. For best results, let the cheesecake cool completely and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
- Prep Time: 45 mins
- Cook Time: 85 mins
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 41
- Sodium: 368
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 61
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 120
How to Prepare This Dish
Steps and time-saving tips
First, preheat your oven and prepare your springform pan. Meanwhile, make your graham cracker crust by mixing the crumbs with melted butter and sugar. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your pan. For a time-saving tip, use a flat-bottomed measuring cup to press the crust down evenly and firmly. Next, prepare your apple crumble topping. Simply toss diced apples with cinnamon, sugar, and a little flour, then set this mixture aside. After that, make your cheesecake filling. Use a stand mixer to beat the cream cheese until completely smooth. Gradually add the sugar and beat again. Then, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and sour cream. Importantly, mix on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air. Finally, gently fold in a portion of the apple mixture. Pour your beautiful filling over the crust and top it with the remaining apples and a simple streusel. Bake until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Let the cheesecake cool completely on a wire rack before you chill it for several hours. This patience is the key to the perfect sliceable texture for your Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats.
Mistakes I’ve made and learned from
I have absolutely learned this recipe the hard way. Initially, I used to overmix my cheesecake filling, which incorporated too much air and caused the surface to crack terribly as it baked. Now, I mix just until each ingredient is incorporated and never on high speed. Another common mistake was not letting all my ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, reach room temperature first. Using cold ingredients creates a lumpy batter that never bakes evenly. Trust me, taking that extra hour to let everything sit on the counter makes the entire process smoother and leads to a velvety texture. For more tips on avoiding common pitfalls, check out my guide on avoiding a soggy bottom. And if you love this flavor profile, you must try my classic salted caramel apple pie next.
Cultural Connection and Variations
Where this recipe comes from
This dessert feels like a warm hug from generations past because it masterfully weaves together two beloved classics. The humble apple crumble, with its rustic, buttery topping, has long been a staple in homes across Britain and Ireland, often using windfall apples for a thrifty, comforting pudding. Meanwhile, the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake boasts a history that stretches back to ancient Greece, evolving through New York delis to become a celebratory centerpiece. The Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats is a beautiful fusion of these two traditions, so it honors heritage while delivering something entirely new and exciting.
Many families have their own cherished version of an apple dessert, often tied to a specific season or gathering. In the American Midwest, for instance, you might find a deep-dish apple crisp at a church potluck, while a French tarte tatin brings elegance to a dinner party. This particular Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats recipe feels personal, as if someone perfected it in a home kitchen for sharing with loved ones. It captures the essence of autumn and the joy of baking from the heart, making it a modern heirloom recipe in its own right.
How it fits in today’s cooking
This dessert has found a perfect place in modern cooking, especially since it effortlessly bridges the gap between casual and celebratory. It is a show-stopping finale for a holiday feast like Thanksgiving, yet it is also approachable enough for a Sunday family dinner. Home cooks constantly adapt it, perhaps by using a variety of apples for more complex flavor or even making a spiced apple butter to swirl into the cheesecake layer for an extra autumnal kick.
Its versatility is a huge part of its lasting appeal. You can prepare components ahead of time, which fits perfectly into today’s busy lifestyles. Furthermore, while the classic version is always a winner, many put their own spin on it. Some might add a handful of cranberries to the apple layer for a tart contrast, or even incorporate a ginger snap crust for added warmth. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser after any meal, much like a perfect one-pan lemon herb chicken simplifies the main course.
Taste and Texture
What makes it delicious
This dessert delivers a spectacular sensory experience with every single bite. You are first greeted by the crisp, buttery crumble topping, which provides a delightful crunch that gives way to the main event. The cheesecake layer itself is phenomenally creamy and luxuriously rich, so it offers a cool, tangy contrast to the warm spices above. Nestled within, you will discover the star of the show: tender, soft-baked apple pieces. These apples are fragrant with cinnamon and nutmeg, so they burst with sweet, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the creamy base. The overall texture is a masterful play between the crunchy oat topping, the velvety smooth cheesecake, and the soft, yielding fruit. This Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats is a harmonious blend of cozy autumn pie and indulgent cheesecake. Its aroma is utterly intoxicating, because the scent of baked apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen long before the first slice is served. Ultimately, the magic of Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats lies in its perfect balance, as it is simultaneously comforting and elegant.
Boosting the flavor
You can easily amplify the flavor of this stunning dessert with a few simple tweaks. Consider swapping the traditional apples for a firmer, tart variety like Granny Smith, as their bright flavor cuts through the richness beautifully. A drizzle of warm salted caramel sauce right before serving introduces a wonderful salty-sweet dimension that enhances every component. For an extra layer of cozy warmth, add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to your apple spice mixture. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side is a classic move, although a dollop of freshly whipped cream works equally well for a lighter touch. If you love the combination of fruit and cheesecake, our Mixed Berry Cheesecake offers another fantastic flavor profile to explore. For more inspiration on crafting the perfect crumble topping, our guide on creating the ultimate crumble provides excellent tips and variations. So, do not hesitate to get creative and make this incredible dessert uniquely your own.
Tips for Success
Best practices for results
Always use full-fat, room temperature cream cheese for your Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats because it will incorporate more smoothly and create a creamier, richer filling without any lumps. Furthermore, press the crumble topping firmly into an even layer before baking so that it holds together and creates those perfect, crunchy clusters everyone loves. Although it requires patience, allow the baked cheesecake to cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent any drastic temperature changes that could cause it to crack.
Mistakes to avoid
A common mistake is overmixing the cheesecake batter after adding the eggs, as this incorporates too much air and can lead to the surface cracking while it bakes; instead, mix on low speed just until the ingredients are combined. Another error is using warm apple filling, which can begin to cook the eggs in the batter upon contact and result in an uneven texture; therefore, always ensure your spiced apple mixture is completely cool before layering it. For more guidance on achieving the perfect creamy texture, read our essential guide on how to avoid a curdled cheesecake filling. Additionally, if your crumble topping seems too dry and isn’t clumping, you can troubleshoot this by following the tips in our article on fixing a crumble topping that is too dry.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
How to serve this dish
Present your Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats with style for a truly memorable dessert. For instance, serve each slice on a simple white plate to let its beautiful layers stand out. Then, add a final flourish with a light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the top. Alternatively, a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting beside it creates a gorgeous and delicious contrast.
This stunning dessert naturally fits many special occasions. It makes a show-stopping finale for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Furthermore, it is a perfect centerpiece for a birthday celebration or a sophisticated brunch gathering. Ultimately, its comforting yet elegant nature means it shines just as brightly at a casual family dinner.
What goes well with it
Choosing the right beverage elevates the entire experience. A hot cup of coffee, especially a rich dark roast, cuts through the sweetness beautifully and highlights the warm spices in the cheesecake. Conversely, a glass of cold milk is a classic pairing that complements the creamy texture. For a festive adult option, a sweet dessert wine or a hard apple cider mirrors the apple flavors wonderfully.
While this dessert is complete on its own, a simple side can add a refreshing note. A small side of our Mixed Berry Salad provides a bright, tangy counterpoint to the rich and creamy cheesecake. Additionally, a warm beverage is always a welcome partner. You could serve it with a cozy mug of our favorite Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate for the ultimate comforting treat during colder months.
For the best flavor and texture that holds up during baking, use a firm, tart apple like Granny Smith. Their sharpness perfectly balances the sweetness of the cheesecake and crumble topping in this Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats recipe.
Avoid overmixing the batter after adding eggs, as this incorporates too much air. Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to provide gentle, even heat and moisture. Finally, let it cool gradually in the turned-off oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes.
Yes, you can freeze cheesecake successfully. For the best results, freeze it without any garnishes first on a baking sheet until solid, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Yes, you must always refrigerate cheesecake because it contains dairy and eggs, which are perishable. Keep your Apple Crumble Cheesecake – Julie Marie Eats covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
