Decadent Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake with Cookie Crumble Base

Dive into the delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the warm flavors of spiced apples with a buttery cookie crumble base. This dessert combines the luscious richness of cream cheese, the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the crunch of a cookie crust, creating a heavenly treat for any occasion. Perfect for autumn gatherings or an indulgent weekend dessert, this recipe is a must-try for cheesecake and apple lovers alike.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Crumble Base

• 200 g Digestive or graham crackers, crushed
• 80 g Dark brown sugar
• 120 g Butter, melted

For the Creamy Cheesecake Layer

• 600 g Full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 150 g Sour cream
• 200 g Granulated sugar
• 3 large Eggs
• 2 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch

For the Spiced Apple Topping

• 150 g Apples, peeled and diced
• 1.5 tbsp Dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp Ground nutmeg

For the Crumb Topping

• 100 g All-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp Granulated sugar
• 1.5 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 80 g Butter, chilled and diced

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crumble Base

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, mix the crushed digestive or graham crackers with dark brown sugar and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the base of the pan to create an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and cornstarch, mixing well.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.

Step 3: Prepare the Spiced Apple Topping

1. In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Sprinkle the apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake batter.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and chilled butter. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
2. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apple layer.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for an hour to cool gradually.
3. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Conclusion

This apple cinnamon cheesecake with a cookie crumble base is a dessert masterpiece that brings the best of autumn flavors to your plate. The creamy cheesecake, spiced apple topping, and buttery crumble come together to create an unforgettable treat. Serve it chilled and savor every indulgent bite! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive celebration, this cheesecake is sure to be the star of the table. Enjoy!