Decadent Apple Crumble Cheesecake

This Decadent Apple Crumble Cheesecake combines two classic desserts—cheesecake and apple crumble—for a dessert that’s truly unforgettable. Featuring a buttery cookie crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake layer, and a topping of spiced apples and buttery crumble, this treat is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall or to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Crust:

• 200 g digestive or graham crackers (about 1½ cups)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
• 1½ tablespoons brown sugar
• 50 g butter, melted

For the Apples and Crumble Topping:

• 150 g apples, diced small (about 1–2 apples)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 100 g all-purpose flour (¾ cup)
• 80 g brown sugar (about ½ cup)
• 70 g butter, room temperature (about 5 tablespoons)

For the Cheesecake:

• 600 g cream cheese, full fat, room temperature (about 2½ cups)
• 200 g granulated sugar (about 1 cup)
• 150 g sour cream, 18% fat, room temperature (about ⅔ cup)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, room temperature

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Crust : Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line the base of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. In a food processor, pulse the digestive or graham crackers into fine crumbs. Add a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, and brown sugar, then mix in the melted butter until the texture resembles damp sand.  Evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the remaining layers.
2. Make the Apple and Crumble Topping : In a bowl, toss the diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.In another bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and room-temperature butter with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling : In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Be careful not to overmix, as this can add air and cause cracking.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake : Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Evenly distribute the spiced apple mixture on top of the cheesecake layer. Evenly distribute the crumble topping over the apples, ensuring they are fully covered.
5. Bake and Cool : Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake at 160°C (320°F) for 50–60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually. Take the cheesecake out of the oven and let it chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, or overnight for optimal texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy :  Gently remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it onto a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce if desired. Slice and serve chilled.

Conclusion

This Decadent Apple Crumble Cheesecake is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, with its buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and sweet spiced apples topped with a crumbly, buttery streusel. It’s a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious and perfect for holidays, celebrations, or cozy evenings with family and friends. Try it today, and enjoy the best of both worlds!