Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spiced—this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is everything you love about cheesecake and apple pie in one irresistible dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety vanilla cheesecake, layers of cinnamon apples, and a golden brown streusel topping, it’s the kind of show-stopping dessert that feels just right for any occasion—especially fall gatherings and holiday tables.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy Thanksgiving dinner or just craving a twist on classic cheesecake desserts, this recipe delivers all the warm flavors of an apple crumble paired with the indulgent richness of a traditional cake cheesecake. And the best part? It’s easier to make than it looks.
Let’s break down everything you need to know to bake this dreamy layered treat—from the ingredients to pro baking tips and storage solutions.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crumble Cheesecake Recipe
This isn’t just another apple dessert. It’s a beautifully layered cheesecake with contrast in every bite—cool, creamy filling meets spiced apple pie filling and a crisp, buttery crumble. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Combines two classic desserts: cheesecake + apple crumble
- Perfect for fall, Thanksgiving, or year-round indulgence
- Can be made ahead and freezes beautifully
- Balanced sweetness with warm cinnamon spice
- Satisfies both cheesecake lovers and apple pie fans
- Gorgeous presentation without complicated techniques
Whether you’re a home baker or a first-time cheesecake maker, this apple crumble cheesecake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What Is Apple Crumble Cheesecake?
Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a layered dessert that merges traditional baked cheesecake with apple pie flavors and a crunchy streusel topping. It starts with a graham cracker crust, followed by a thick layer of creamy cheesecake, a spiced apple filling, and a golden crumb topping made from butter, sugar, and flour.
It’s essentially a three-in-one dessert:
- Cheesecake base
- Apple pie center
- Crumble topping
This elegant dessert hits all the right textures and flavor notes—silky, crisp, buttery, fruity, and spiced.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Apple Cheesecake with Crumble Topping
You’ll need three main components for this crumble cheesecake: the crust, the cheesecake filling, and the apple crumble topping.
For the Graham Cracker Crust
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
¾ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Apple Filling
3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
These simple pantry ingredients come together to create a bakery-style dessert with layers of texture and flavor.
Essential Tools for Baking Cheesecake Desserts at Home
To make your apple cheesecake a success, you’ll want these tools on hand:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet (for water bath, optional)
- Parchment paper (for lining)
- Foil (to wrap pan for water bath if using)
- Cooling rack
- Sharp knife (for slicing apples)
A springform pan is crucial for that classic cheesecake shape and easy removal.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Step 1 – Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2 – Make the apple filling
In a skillet, cook diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until slightly softened. Set aside to cool.
Step 3 – Mix the cheesecake batter
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating between each addition. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and flour until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Step 4 – Assemble the cheesecake
Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Gently spoon the cooked apple mixture over the top in an even layer.
Step 5 – Add the crumble topping
In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly. Sprinkle over the apples.
Step 6 – Bake
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. If using a water bath, wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water.
Step 7 – Cool and chill
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake sit for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 8 – Slice and serve
Release the springform ring, slice with a sharp knife, and serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Cheesecake and Crunchy Crumble
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth, lump-free filling
- Don’t overmix the batter—overmixing adds too much air and can cause cracks
- Cool slowly to prevent splitting or collapsing
- Use a water bath for even baking and creamy texture
- Chill overnight for best flavor and slicing results
- Cut cold for clean slices, then let it come to room temp to serve
These tips will help you bake a cheesecake that looks as good as it tastes.
Variations: Make It with Apple Pie Filling or Customize It
Want to tweak this apple cheesecake recipe to fit your style or pantry? Try these easy variations:
- Use canned apple pie filling instead of fresh apples for faster prep
- Swap in pears or peaches for a seasonal twist
- Add chopped pecans or oats to the crumble for texture
- Top with caramel sauce for extra indulgence
- Use a cookie crust (like Biscoff or gingersnaps) instead of graham crackers
- Make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins for individual servings
No matter how you customize it, the balance of fruit, cream, and crumble remains irresistible.
Serving Ideas: How to Present This Show-Stopping Cake Cheesecake
For a dessert this stunning, serving it well makes it even more memorable:
- Dust the top lightly with powdered sugar
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Add extra cooked apples on the side
- Garnish with toasted chopped nuts for crunch
This is an ideal centerpiece dessert for Thanksgiving, fall dinners, or birthdays.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Crumble Cheesecake
To store:
Cover the cheesecake tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Keep it in the springform pan or transfer slices to an airtight container.
To freeze:
Chill the baked cheesecake fully. Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, or place slices in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
To serve:
Thaw in the fridge overnight. For best texture, let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
This make-ahead dessert is perfect for prepping ahead of holidays or gatherings.
Make-Ahead Tips for Holidays and Thanksgiving Desserts
Planning for Thanksgiving or Christmas? Here’s how to make your apple crumble cheesecake stress-free:
- Make it 1–2 days ahead and chill until ready to serve
- Use canned apple pie filling if you’re short on time
- Pre-slice and plate with garnishes before guests arrive
- Freeze a second cheesecake for backup or gifting
This dessert tastes even better the next day—making it a dream holiday recipe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Crumble Cheesecake
- Overmixing the batter—leads to cracking and a dense texture
- Not pre-baking the crust—can result in a soggy base
- Skipping the water bath—may cause uneven baking
- Under-softening the cream cheese—results in a lumpy filling
- Adding hot apples—can affect the cheesecake layer texture
Avoid these issues for a smooth, luscious cheesecake every time.
FAQ: Apple Crumble Cheesecake and Cheesecake Recipes
Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
Yes! Just layer it on top of the cheesecake before adding the crumble.
What’s the best apple for baking?
Granny Smith is tart and holds shape well. Honeycrisp adds natural sweetness.
Do I need a water bath?
It’s optional, but highly recommended for even baking and a creamy center.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers and flour alternatives like almond or oat flour for the crumble.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days when stored properly.
Final Thoughts: A Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Dessert to Bookmark
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as comforting as it is impressive, this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is it. It combines the best elements of cheesecake and apple crumble into one sliceable masterpiece. Creamy, spiced, and layered with love, it’s a must-bake for fall, Thanksgiving, or any time you want to wow a crowd.
Serve it chilled, drizzle with caramel, and get ready for the compliments to roll in. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just exploring cheesecake recipes, this one’s a keeper.
PrintApple Crumble Cheesecake : An Ultimate Dessert
Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spiced—this Apple Crumble Cheesecake is everything you love about cheesecake and apple pie in one irresistible dessert.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 70
- Total Time: 1hour 40
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
¾ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Apple Filling
3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2 – Make the apple filling
In a skillet, cook diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until slightly softened. Set aside to cool.
Step 3 – Mix the cheesecake batter
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating between each addition. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and flour until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Step 4 – Assemble the cheesecake
Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Gently spoon the cooked apple mixture over the top in an even layer.
Step 5 – Add the crumble topping
In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly. Sprinkle over the apples.
Step 6 – Bake
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. If using a water bath, wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water.
Step 7 – Cool and chill
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake sit for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 8 – Slice and serve
Release the springform ring, slice with a sharp knife, and serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth, lump-free filling
- Don’t overmix the batter—overmixing adds too much air and can cause cracks
- Cool slowly to prevent splitting or collapsing
- Use a water bath for even baking and creamy texture
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10–12 slices
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
Keywords: Apple Cheesecake Recipes