Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Recipe
This Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, spiced sweetness of thinly sliced apples. A crunchy graham cracker crust seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg pairs beautifully with the smooth cream cheese filling, making it a perfect dessert for fall or any time you crave a comforting treat.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Apple Topping
- 2 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make the apple topping: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the thinly sliced apples, 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook the apples gently for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract and mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing to prevent cracks.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Carefully spoon the cooked apple mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake filling.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually, which helps prevent cracking.
- Chill the cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: Once chilled, remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Use cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid cracking during baking.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracking.
- Granny Smith apples provide tartness, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness; choose based on your preference.
- This cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: apple cinnamon cheesecake, cheesecake recipe, baked cheesecake, apple dessert, fall dessert, creamy cheesecake