If you love all things cozy, sweet, and a little bit extra, this Apple Crisp Cheesecake is going to be your new obsession. Imagine layers of creamy, silky cheesecake, a warm cinnamon apple filling, and a buttery, crunchy oat crisp on top—each bite tastes like the ultimate fusion of autumn’s best desserts. It’s show-stopping enough for holidays and special events, but irresistibly comforting for any day you want to treat yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we begin, let’s talk about what’s going into our Apple Crisp Cheesecake. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build flavors and textures—from the classic graham crust to the fresh honeycrisp apples and the dreamy, rich cheesecake layer that ties it all together.

Graham crackers: These form the base, delivering a toasty, slightly sweet crunch that’s the perfect foil for the creamy cheesecake.
Granulated sugar: Adds the right amount of sweetness to multiple layers, balancing tart apples and tangy cream cheese.
Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a signature autumnal note to both the crust and crisp topping.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch brightens every flavor and keeps the sweetness in check.
Unsalted butter: Melted for the crust, softened for the crisp—an essential ingredient for richness and flavor throughout.
All-purpose flour: Used in the crisp topping to create that crumble effect we crave on every apple dessert.
Light brown sugar: Beautifully caramel-y and moist, it’s a must for serious apple crisp vibes.
Old-fashioned oats: These add a hearty, chewy texture to the crisp, making the top irresistibly crunchy.
Honeycrisp apples: Sliced into cute little cubes, they’re sweet-tart, juicy, and keep some body after baking—ideal for cheesecake topping.
Full-fat cream cheese: The backbone of cheesecake, providing that ultra-velvety, rich filling we all swoon over.
Full-fat sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and helps ensure the cheesecake is creamier and softer in texture.
Large eggs: Essential for binding and setting the cheesecake smoothly—room temperature is key for no lumps!
Vanilla extract: Just a splash, but it makes the creamy filling sing with extra aroma and depth.

How to Make Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Step 1: Bring Your Ingredients to Room Temperature

Don’t rush this step! Allow the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to sit out until they’re all at room temperature. This ensures your cheesecake batter turns out super smooth and lump-free, which is exactly what you want for the perfect Apple Crisp Cheesecake.

Step 2: Prepare the Graham Crust

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Add sugar, cinnamon, and salt, then pulse again. Drizzle in the melted butter and pulse until you get a texture that feels like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden, then let it cool while you prep the rest.

Step 3: Mix the Crisp Topping

In a small mixing bowl, stir together the flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon. Add the cubes of slightly softened butter and use your fingers to work them in until the mixture forms crumbly bits—think small peas in size. Set aside for the ultimate sweet-and-spicy crunch later.

Step 4: Make the Apple Topping

Combine your diced honeycrisp apples with light brown sugar and cinnamon. This simple toss infuses the apples with flavor and helps draw out just enough juice for the perfect tender bite.

Step 5: Whip Up The Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer on medium-high, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until totally smooth—about two minutes. Scrape down the bowl, then add sour cream and vanilla, beating until just combined. Add eggs one at a time on medium speed, watching not to overmix, so your Apple Crisp Cheesecake stays dreamy and crack-free.

Step 6: Assemble and Prepare the Water Bath

Boil enough water for a shallow water bath. Wrap the outside (bottom and sides) of your springform pan in four layers of foil—this is your leak protection! Pour the creamy cheesecake batter into the cooled crust. Drain any excess liquid from the apples (use a colander and a paper towel blot for insurance), then scatter apples over the cheesecake. Sprinkle on the crisp topping evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Set the foil-wrapped pan in a large roasting pan, then pour hot water into the roasting pan so it comes about an inch up the side of the springform pan. Bake for 70–75 minutes at 325 degrees F. Check for doneness using a thermometer: center should read 150 degrees F. Resist opening the oven during baking—the steam and heat need to stay put for a beautiful Apple Crisp Cheesecake!

Step 8: Cool Gradually, Chill, and Serve

Turn off the oven and prop the door open slightly, letting your cheesecake cool inside for another hour. This keeps it from cracking. Once out, run a knife around the edges to loosen, then fully cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate at least five hours—or overnight if possible. After chilling, run a knife around the edges again, unlock the pan, and slice. Serve as is, or dress it up with caramel sauce or whipped cream!

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cheesecake

Apple Crisp Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

This dessert is a show-stopper on its own, but a little drizzle of caramel sauce takes it totally over the top. For extra wow-factor, add a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts on top. Each garnish brings its own delightful flavor and texture to your Apple Crisp Cheesecake.

Side Dishes

Pairing is everything! Serve this cheesecake after a light meal like roast chicken with a simple green salad. If you’re in a festive mood, try a spiced apple cider or a hot cup of coffee on the side. For a brunch spread, small slices fit beautifully among other pastries and fresh fruits.

Creative Ways to Present

You can cut the cheesecake into bite-sized bars for parties or holiday platters. If you’re making it for a crowd, consider baking the Apple Crisp Cheesecake in a rectangular pan for easy squares. Or, top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate apple pie meets cheesecake experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten slices of Apple Crisp Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays at peak deliciousness for up to five days, though the crisp topping will gradually soften over time (still tasty, though!).

Freezing

Apple Crisp Cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil. Stash them in the freezer for up to two months. To thaw, place the slices overnight in the fridge—this keeps them creamy and prevents condensation on top.

Reheating

To restore a little warmth without melting the cheesecake, let slices stand at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. If you prefer, gently warm in the microwave for 10 seconds, but keep in mind the crisp topping is most crunchy when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use other apple varieties in this cheesecake?

Absolutely! While honeycrisp apples are my favorite for flavor and firmness, granny smith or fuji also work wonderfully in Apple Crisp Cheesecake. Just choose apples that hold up well to baking.

Do I really need to use a water bath for this recipe?

Yes, the water bath is worth the extra step! It creates gentle, even heat that prevents the cheesecake from cracking and keeps it luxuriously creamy—especially important for a thick, rich Apple Crisp Cheesecake.

Why does my cheesecake crack?

Cracks typically happen from sudden temperature changes or overmixing the batter. Gradual cooling (as in this recipe) and mixing just until combined are the best preventative measures. Don’t stress—cracks happen, and they’re easy to hide with plenty of crisp topping!

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and swap the all-purpose flour in the crisp topping with a gluten-free blend. Double-check your oats to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Can I bake Apple Crisp Cheesecake in advance?

Definitely. In fact, it tastes even better after a day in the fridge. Just wait to add any fresh garnishes until right before serving for the prettiest presentation and best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crisp Cheesecake is one of those magical desserts that always brings smiles, warm memories, and plenty of requests for seconds. If you adore creamy cheesecake, spiced apples, and a hit of oat-y crunch, this is a must-bake for your next gathering or cozy weekend at home. Happy baking, and I hope it becomes your new favorite too!