Cozy Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

Apple crumble cheesecake recipe lovers, this one is for you. Imagine a dessert that gives you the cozy warmth of apple pie, the creamy richness of classic cheesecake, and a golden oat topping that feels like the crunch of fall leaves under your boots.

This recipe was born one chilly weekend when I needed something special to bring to dinner. Not too fussy, not too basic. Just the kind of treat that makes everyone pause mid-bite and smile. It’s my go-to when I want a dessert that feels a little luxurious without requiring bakery-level stress.

The best part? You can make it the night before, which means no scrambling or last-minute mess. It slices beautifully, holds up well in the fridge, and has that magical contrast of textures that keeps people coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a gathering, or just your own quiet joy, this cheesecake fits the moment. Let me show you how easy it is to pull it off.

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This apple crumble cheesecake recipe combines creamy cheesecake, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a buttery oat crumble for the ultimate cozy dessert. It’s make-ahead friendly and easier than it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

When the leaves start to turn and the days get shorter, a cozy dessert like this one feels just right. This apple crumble cheesecake recipe is everything you want in a fall cheesecake. It’s smooth and creamy in the center, layered with cinnamon-kissed apples, and topped with a crisp, buttery crumble.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about how all the textures come together. The base has that classic graham cracker crust, slightly spiced and perfectly firm. The cheesecake filling is velvety but stable. Then there’s the apple layer, tender and gently sweet. And the crumb topping adds just the right crunch.

This is the kind of dessert that looks like it took hours, but is actually designed for busy days, much like my incredibly easy Simple No-Sugar, No-Flour Strawberry Cake Recipe. You can make it ahead of time and even freeze it for later. No guesswork. No fancy equipment. Just real ingredients that work beautifully together.

Whether you’re baking it for a weekend gathering or prepping it in advance for a holiday table, this recipe brings warmth, ease, and just the right amount of sweetness.

What Is Apple Crumble Cheesecake?

If cheesecake and apple pie had a fall-inspired baby, this would be it. An apple crumble cheesecake recipe layers the best parts of both desserts into one unforgettable bite.

Picture this. A crisp graham cracker crust forms the base. Next comes a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer that holds everything together. On top of that, there’s a gently spiced apple filling made with real chunks of fruit. Then it all finishes with a golden cinnamon-oat crumble that adds just the right texture and warmth.

This dessert hits every note. Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spiced. It’s a seasonal favorite for a reason and feels fancy without the stress.

You can dress it up with a drizzle of warm caramel or keep it simple with a sprinkle of toasted oats. Either way, it always feels comforting and a little bit special.

Ingredients for Apple Crumble Cheesecake

This apple crumble cheesecake recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients that come together for a bakery-style dessert. Below is everything you’ll need, grouped by layer so it’s easy to prep.

For the Crust

• 1 and ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
  
• ¼ cup brown sugar
  
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 680 grams or 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
  
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
  
• ½ cup brown sugar
  
• ¾ cup sour cream
  
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
  
• Pinch of salt
  

For the Apple Layer

• 3 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
  
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  
• ¼ cup brown sugar
  
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, optional for thickening
  

For the Crumble Topping

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  
• ¼ cup rolled oats
  
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
  
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  
• 5 tablespoons butter, softened
  

Optional Toppings

• Warm caramel drizzle
  
• Crushed pecans or toasted oats
  

Want to know why cinnamon is more than just cozy? It may support blood sugar balance and digestion according to this Healthline article on cinnamon’s benefits.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake (Step-by-Step)

This apple crumble cheesecake recipe may look impressive, but the steps are simple and reliable. Set aside some prep time and let the oven do the rest.

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix 1 and ½ cups graham cracker crumbs with ¼ cup brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and 6 tablespoons melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake at 350°F or 175°C for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Apple Filling

In a small saucepan, combine peeled and diced apples with ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the apples begin to soften. Stir in 1 teaspoon cornstarch if you want a thicker mixture. Let it cool.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, mix ¾ cup flour, ¼ cup oats, ⅓ cup brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in 5 tablespoons softened butter using a fork until the mixture looks crumbly. Place it in the fridge to chill while you make the filling.

Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Batter

Beat 680 grams of room-temperature cream cheese with ¾ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup brown sugar. Add ¾ cup sour cream, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just enough to combine after each addition. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour half the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust. Spoon in half the apple mixture. Repeat with the remaining batter and apples. Sprinkle the chilled crumble evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake with a Water Bath

Wrap the bottom of your springform pan in foil to prevent leaks. Place it in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pan. Bake at 325°F or 165°C for 70 to 80 minutes. The edges should look set but the center should still jiggle slightly.

Step 7: Cool Slowly and Chill

Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then remove it and let it cool fully at room temperature. Refrigerate overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Run a sharp knife under hot water before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Add a caramel drizzle or crushed pecans if you like a little extra touch.

The Secret to the Perfect Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Making a stunning apple crumble cheesecake recipe doesn’t have to feel complicated. With a few small tricks, you can get that creamy center, crisp topping, and smooth finish every time.

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

Cold cream cheese leads to lumps. Let your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream sit out for a bit so everything blends evenly.

2. Avoid Overmixing

Once the eggs go in, mix gently. Overmixing adds too much air which can cause the cheesecake to rise and fall unevenly.

3. Embrace the Water Bath

A water bath keeps the heat gentle and even, which helps prevent cracks. If the idea sounds intimidating, don’t worry. Just wrap your springform pan in foil and place it in a larger dish filled halfway with hot water.

4. Let It Cool Gradually

After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit with the door slightly open. Sudden temperature changes are one of the biggest reasons for cracking.

5. Keep That Crumble Chilled

Chilling the crumble before baking helps it hold its shape and stay crisp. You get that satisfying contrast between soft and crunchy.

This cheesecake is all about balance. The creamy center and spiced apple layer are rich and soft. The crumble adds just enough texture to make each bite feel complete. I call it two-texture magic and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

Variations for Apple Crumble Cheesecake

This apple crumble cheesecake recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, but sometimes you want to switch things up. Whether you’re working with dietary needs or just feeling creative, here are a few ways to make it your own.

Baked Apple Cheesecake

If you’re craving something a little simpler, skip the crumble topping and just layer the spiced apples over the cheesecake batter before baking. You still get all that cozy apple flavor but with a more classic presentation.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake

After chilling the finished cheesecake, drizzle it with warm caramel sauce. You can also stir a tablespoon of caramel into the apple filling before baking for even more flavor. For extra texture, sprinkle crushed pecans on top just before serving.

Gluten-Free Crust Option

Swap the graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free biscuits or almond flour mixed with a bit of butter and cinnamon. Just keep the proportions similar so the crust holds together.

No-Oat Crumble Topping

If oats are off the table, use extra flour in the crumble or replace the oats with finely chopped nuts. Walnuts or pecans work well and bring a nice crunch.

Mini Cheesecake Cups

Want something more portable? Use a muffin tin with liners and divide the ingredients evenly to create personal-sized cheesecakes. They bake faster and make great party desserts. They are perfect for grab-and-go parties or easy meal prep, just like my light and airy Healthy Chocolate Mousse.

This recipe is flexible enough to match your mood or needs. The core textures and flavors stay comforting and balanced, no matter how you customize it.

Serving and Storing Your Apple Crumble Cheesecake

One of the best parts of this apple crumble cheesecake recipe is how well it holds up after baking. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or just prepping ahead, it’s as practical as it is delicious.

Serving Tips

Let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing. This softens the filling slightly and brings out the full flavor. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts and wipe the blade between slices.

Top with a light drizzle of warm caramel just before serving. Crushed pecans or toasted oats make a lovely finishing touch if you’re serving guests.

You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a simple twist.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate the cheesecake tightly covered. It will stay fresh for up to five days. Make sure it is completely cool before covering to avoid condensation on the surface.

If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake in plastic wrap followed by foil. Store in the freezer for up to one month. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight.

This make-ahead dessert fits perfectly into busy schedules and still feels like something you baked just for the occasion.

Key Takeaways

• This apple crumble cheesecake recipe combines creamy filling, spiced apples, and a crisp oat topping in one make-ahead dessert.
  
• It is perfect for fall gatherings, weekend baking, or when you want something cozy without the stress.
  
• The no-fail method includes helpful tips for preventing cracks and getting that bakery-style texture at home.
  
• You can easily customize the recipe with gluten-free crusts, caramel drizzle, or mini versions for serving.

Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe

Lena

This apple crumble cheesecake layers creamy filling, cinnamon apples, and a crisp oat topping for a cozy fall dessert that’s easy to make ahead.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Total Time 7 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Crust

• 1 and ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 680 grams or 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs room temperature
• Pinch of salt

For the Apple Layer

• 3 medium apples peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch optional

For the Crumble Topping

• ¾ cup flour
• ¼ cup rolled oats
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 5 tablespoons butter softened

Optional Toppings

• Warm caramel drizzle
• Crushed pecans or toasted oats

Instructions

 

• Prepare the crust
• Mix graham crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Press into a springform pan. Bake at 350°F or 175°C for 8 to 10 minutes. Cool completely.
• Cook the apple filling
• In a saucepan, cook apples with brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in cornstarch and cook 1 more minute if needed. Let cool.
• Make the crumble
• Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in butter until crumbly. Chill in the fridge.
• Mix the cheesecake batter
• Beat cream cheese and both sugars until smooth. Add sour cream, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt. Mix in eggs one at a time without overmixing.
• Assemble
• Layer half of the batter into the crust. Add half the apple filling. Repeat layers. Sprinkle crumble over the top.
• Bake
• Place pan in a water bath and bake at 325°F or 165°C for 70 to 80 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly.
• Cool
• Let it cool in the oven with the door cracked for 1 hour. Cool fully at room temperature, then chill overnight.
• Serve
• Slice with a hot knife. Serve chilled or at room temperature with optional caramel or pecans.

Notes

• Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
• Let the cheesecake chill fully overnight for the best slice and flavor.

Keyword apple crumble cheesecake, baked apple cheesecake, caramel apple cheesecake, fall cheesecake recipes

Conclusion

This apple crumble cheesecake recipe brings comfort and ease together in every bite. It is the kind of dessert that makes people pause, smile, and ask for the recipe. You get the creamy richness of cheesecake, the cozy flavor of cinnamon apples, and the buttery crunch of crumble topping all in one slice.

Whether you’re making it ahead for a gathering or just want something special to enjoy at home, this recipe fits right in. It is simple to follow, flexible to adapt, and full of those little moments of joy that make baking feel worth it.

When you’re ready for more cozy, feel-good recipes, like my crispy, easy Apple Fritter Recipe for the Air Fryer, I’ve got plenty for you.

Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Your Questions Answered