Name: Apple Crumble Cheesecake Jars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups cottage cheese (Good Culture 2% low fat recommended); ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; 3 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract); 1 medium apple (peeled and diced); 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp nutmeg; Pinch of salt; ½ cup rolled oats; ¼ cup almond flour; 2 tbsp coconut sugar (or brown sugar); 2 tbsp coconut oil or butter (melted); ½ tsp cinnamon

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 8 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples, the creamy richness of cheesecake, and the delightful crunch of crumble topping into a handheld treat, then you are going to love this Apple Crumble Cheesecake Jars Recipe. It’s an absolute game-changer for dessert lovers who want a fresh twist on classic comfort food, beautifully layered in individual jars. Each spoonful bursts with texture and cozy autumn spices, making it one of those recipes you’ll find yourself craving over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white rectangular tray filled with a single thin layer of roasted granola spread evenly across the surface. The granola is golden brown with some darker toasted bits scattered throughout, showing a crunchy texture made of small oats clumps. The tray is placed on a white marbled background, which adds contrast to the warm tones of the granola. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, working together to bring incredible depth to the dish. Each component adds its own magic: the creamy tang of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt creates a luscious cheesecake layer, while the warmly spiced apples provide inviting sweetness and the crumble topping delivers that satisfying crisp texture.

1 ½ cups cottage cheese (I like Good Culture 2% low fat): This forms the creamy, protein-packed base that’s lighter than traditional cream cheese but equally delicious.
½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and smoothness while keeping the cheesecake layer perfectly silky.
3 tbsp maple syrup: Natural sweetness that harmonizes all the creamy and fruity flavors beautifully.
1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract): A little touch of vanilla elevates the cheesecake layer to pure decadence.
1 medium apple (peeled + diced): Fresh and juicy, this is the star of the apple layer that brings that classic crumble apple pie feel.
1 tbsp coconut oil or butter: Used for cooking apples and toasting the crumble, adding richness and depth.
2 tbsp maple syrup: Sweetens and caramelizes the apples perfectly while cooking.
1 tsp cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice to both apple and crumble layers.
¼ tsp nutmeg: A subtle hint of nutmeg adds complexity to the apple filling.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness throughout the dish for perfect harmony.
½ cup rolled oats: Forms the hearty, crispy base of the crumble topping for fantastic crunch.
¼ cup almond flour: Adds a nutty flavor and tender texture to the crumble topping.
2 tbsp coconut sugar (or brown sugar): Gives the crumble that irresistible caramelized quality.
2 tbsp coconut oil or butter (melted): Binds the crumble ingredients and crisps when baked.
½ tsp cinnamon: Extra spice in the crumble topping that perfectly complements the apple filling.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cheesecake Jars Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Apples

Start by heating the coconut oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced apples along with maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the apples soften and become beautifully caramelized. This step infuses the fruit with warmth and sweetness, creating the comforting apple layer that will make your jars so irresistible. Let them cool slightly before assembling to avoid melting the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping

Mix together the rolled oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Spread this evenly over a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or in an air fryer for 2 to 4 minutes. Make sure to stir halfway through so the crumble toasts evenly, turning golden and releasing that mouthwatering aroma.

Step 3: Blend the Cheesecake Base

In a food processor or a high-speed blender, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste. Blend for 30 to 45 seconds until the mixture becomes perfectly smooth and creamy. This luscious cheesecake base offers the perfect balance of tang and sweetness, acting as a cooling counterpoint to the spicy apples and crunchy crumble.

Step 4: Assemble the Jars

Now for the fun part! Grab your 4oz mini mason jars or any small glasses you love, and start layering. Begin with a base of crumble, followed by a layer of the spiced apple filling, then a generous spoonful of cheesecake filling. Add another layer of apples and finish with the remaining crumble topping for that beautiful, crunchy finish. This layering not only looks stunning but ensures every spoonful has a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Pop the jars in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the cheesecake set. If you’re impatient like me, you can dive right in, but letting them chill really allows the layers to come together. For an extra special touch, drizzle a homemade coconut caramel sauce on top before serving—trust me, it’s a showstopper!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cheesecake Jars Recipe

A gray pan with two handles sits on a white marbled surface, filled with small, evenly cut, golden-brown cubes of cooked food, lightly coated with a reddish-brown spice. The cubes are spread in a single layer, showing a slightly crispy texture. The pan’s light gray handle extends toward the bottom right corner of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Apple Crumble Cheesecake Jars Recipe truly shine, consider fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of toasted pecans, a light dusting of cinnamon, or even a small mint leaf for a pop of color. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup right before serving adds a glossy, sweet finish that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to amp up the indulgence. For a lighter option, serve alongside fresh fruit such as berries or pear slices to complement the apple flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, the jars themselves are an elegant presentation. Try tying a little rustic twine around the rim with a handwritten tag for a special touch. Alternatively, layer the cheesecake in clear glasses for a visually stunning effect that shows off each delicious layer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Apple Crumble Cheesecake Jars Recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lids on tightly to maintain freshness and prevent the crumble topping from becoming soggy. Before serving, you might want to add a bit of fresh crumble on top for that perfect crunch.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these jars ahead of time for a longer period, you can freeze them without the crumble topping. Wrap the jars securely and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add freshly toasted crumble, and serve chilled.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is typically unnecessary. However, if you prefer a warm apple layer, you can gently heat the apple filling separately in a pan and then spoon it over the cheesecake before serving. This keeps the creamy base cool and the apples warming—a delightful contrast.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Using regular cream cheese will make the cheesecake layer richer and denser, but cottage cheese and Greek yogurt give a lighter, protein-packed option that’s just as delicious.

What kind of apples work best for this recipe?

Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are perfect because they hold their shape well when cooked and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt alternatives and use vegan butter or coconut oil. Maple syrup keeps all the sweetness plant-friendly.

Can I make the crumble topping gluten-free?

Definitely. Rolled oats are naturally gluten-free, but make sure to buy certified gluten-free oats, and almond flour is a great gluten-free flour that works perfectly here.

How long should I chill the jars before serving?

At least 30 minutes to allow the cheesecake layer to set and flavors to meld, but feel free to prepare them a few hours in advance or even the night before for the best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a charming, comforting dessert that you can prep quickly but will impress every time, the Apple Crumble Cheesecake Jars Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy—all packed into adorable little jars that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do!