This Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake is a tasty treat with creamy cheese and sweet apple slices topped with a sprinkle of warm cinnamon. It’s like a hug in dessert form!
Every bite reminds me of fall, and it’s perfect for any gathering. I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream—it’s just heavenly! 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of the cheesecake. If you don’t have them, try using crushed digestive biscuits or Oreo cookies for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: Essential for that creamy texture. Philadelphia is a popular brand, but any full-fat cream cheese will work. Neufchâtel is a lighter option, but it may be less rich.
Apples: Fuji and Honeycrisp are my favorites. They’re sweet and firm, keeping their shape. If those aren’t available, Granny Smith adds a nice tartness, or you could use any baking apples available.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option that still provides tanginess.
How Do I Prevent Cracks in My Cheesecake?
Cracking can be a common issue with cheesecakes. Here are a few tips to achieve a smooth, crack-free cheesecake:
- Don’t overmix the batter; this adds air, which can cause cracks as it bakes.
- Use a water bath (bain-marie) by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water. This helps regulate baking temperature.
- Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar to avoid temperature shock.
These tips will help you create a beautiful and delicious Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake every time! Enjoy your baking!
Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Apple Topping:
- 3 medium apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delectable cheesecake requires about 30 minutes of prep time and 65-75 minutes of baking time. After baking, allow it to cool completely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. Total time will be about 5 hours minimum, including chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Take a 9-inch springform pan and grease it well to help with easy release after baking.
2. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Combine until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your springform pan. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and ground cinnamon. Mix until just combined.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the creamy filling over your cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake the Cheesecake:
Carefully place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for about 55-65 minutes. It should be set at the edges, but the center might still jiggle a bit. To prevent cracking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour.
6. Cool and Chill:
After the hour is up, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until it’s fully set.
7. Prepare the Cinnamon Apple Topping:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Stir and cook until the apples are tender and caramelized, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
8. Serve the Cheesecake:
When you’re ready to enjoy your cheesecake, gently spoon the cinnamon apple topping over the chilled cheesecake. For a nice finishing touch, you can dust some additional cinnamon on top!
Enjoy the creamy, spiced delight of this Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake!
Can I Use a Different Type of Crust?
Absolutely! You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a cookie crust made from vanilla wafers, Oreos, or even nut-based crusts for a gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust the butter amount accordingly if the cookie base differs!
How Can I Make This Cheesecake Richer?
If you’re looking for a richer flavor, consider adding a bit of heavy cream to the filling for extra creaminess. You can also increase the cream cheese amount slightly. Just ensure not to overload it with too much liquid.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Just slice it first, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place the slices in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Can I Use Other Fruits for the Topping?
Yes! While cinnamon apples are delicious, you can easily swap them for other fruits like pears, peaches, or even berries. Just adjust the cooking time for the fruits to ensure they caramelize nicely!