Description
This Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy cinnamon-spiced cheesecake filling, topped with tender cooked apples and a drizzle of caramel sauce. The dessert is baked to perfection and chilled overnight to develop smooth, rich flavors with a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, making it a perfect treat for fall or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 8-ounce full fat cream cheese blocks (softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 whole eggs (at room temperature)
- ½ cup sour cream (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Apple Topping
- 1 ½ cups chopped apple
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional
- Caramel sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray and set it aside to prepare for baking.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix with a fork until the mixture takes on a sandy texture, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Bake the Crust: Transfer the crumb mixture to the prepared springform pan and press it firmly into the bottom to form an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool while you prepare the filling.
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth, creamy, and lump-free.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Continue until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 4-5 minutes in total.
- Add Remaining Filling Ingredients: Incorporate the sour cream, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and all-purpose flour into the cheesecake batter. Beat the mixture until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is no longer jiggly when the pan is gently shaken.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature for about 4 hours. Afterward, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill overnight to set properly.
- Prepare the Apple Topping: While the cheesecake cools, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the apples are tender, about 7-8 minutes. Allow the topping to cool completely before using.
- Add Topping: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, spread the cooled apple topping evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
- Serve: Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled. Optionally, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for extra sweetness and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure all your dairy ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together after baking.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; the center should still be slightly wobbly when you take it out.
- Chilling overnight is crucial for the best texture and flavor.
- The apple topping can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Use a hot water bath if desired for an even creamier filling and to prevent cracking.
- Serve with whipped cream or caramel sauce for added indulgence.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American